SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON

THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY

"There should be a living, growing interest in storing the mind with Bible

truth. The precious knowledge thus gained will build a barrier about the

soul."—Counsels on Sabbath School Work,

page 36.

Let us resolve to be more diligent in the study of His word and "set apart

a little time each day for the study of the Sabbath school

lesson."—Counsels

on Sabbath School Work,

page 41.

My Daily Lesson Study Pledge

As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge

myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath school

lesson each day of the week.

Nam

Lesson Titles for the Quarter

The Church Militant in the Laodicean Age

A Call to Revival

Warnings Against Apostasy

Fidelity in the Gathering Storm

Righteousness Through Christ

The Seal of the Living God

The Sabbath—Vital Issue Through the Ages

Faithfulness Under Persecution

The Close of Probation

10.

The Time of Trouble

11.

Our Lord's Return

12.

God's Harvest

13.

The Judgment

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 274, October-December, 1963. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents

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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly

ENCOURAGEMENTS AND WARNINGS

FOR THE CHURCH TODAY

Lesson 1, for October 5, 1963

The Church Militant in the Laodicean Age

MEMORY VERSE:

"And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this Rock

I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it."

Matt. 16:18.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," chapter 32; "Selected Messages," b. 2,

pp. 396, 397; "Testimonies," vol. 5, pp. 477-490; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To remind us of the privileges of Christian service that are ours,

and to encourage each individual church member to enter more fully into

that service.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check

Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;

learn memory verse.



❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.



Monday: Questions 5-9.



Tuesday: Questions 10-13.

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Check

Here

Wednesday: Begin reading study

helps; be sure of the memory

verse.



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Thursday: Finish reading study

Friday: Review entire lesson.

helps.



Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The True Church

Distinguishing marks of the true

church. Rev. 14:12.

Urgency of uniting with the visible

church. Eph. 2:19-22; 4:4, 5, 13,

15, 16; 1 Peter 2:5.

Multitudes of Christians still out-

side the true church. Rev. 18:4.

These are to be gathered into

the

fold. Matt. 28:19, 20.

II. Perilous, Sinful Days Foretold

5. Apostasy foretold. 2 Tim. 3:1, 5.

Spirit of indifference to invade the

church. Matt. 25:1-8.

No blessing on the unused talent.

Matt. 25:25-28.

Church members appointed to be

witnesses. Acts. 1:8.

Negligence incurs guilt. Ezek. 3:

18, 19.

III. Spirit and Power

10.

Love, the mainspring of all true

service. 1 John 4:11-13.

11.

Without love, service is worthless.

1 Cor. 13:1-3.

12.

Love, the source of enthusiasm for

soul winning. 2 Cor. 5:14.

13.

God's call said to lighten the earth.

Rev. 18:1.

[

THE LESSON

3. Are all of Christ's followers now

members of the commandment-keep-

ing church? Rev. 18:4. Compare

John 10:16.

Introduction

"The work is soon to close. The mem-

bers of the church militant who have

proved faithful will become the church

triumphant."—Evangelism, page 707.

"The long night of gloom is trying, but

the morning is deferred in mercy, because

if the Master should come, so many would

be found unready."—Ibid., p. 694.

The True Church

By what two distinguishing

marks may the true church be iden-

tified? Rev. 14:12.

NOTE.—"God has placed in our hands a

banner upon which is inscribed: 'Here is

the patience of the saints: here are they

that keep the commandments of God, and

the faith of Jesus.' Revelation 14:12. This

is a distinct, separating message, a message

that is to give no uncertain sound. It is

to lead the people away from the broken

cisterns that contain no water, to the un-

failing Fountain of the water of life."—

Testimonies, vol. 7,

p. 150.

How do New Testament writers

stress the importance of union with

the visible church on earth? Eph.

2:19-22; 4:4, 5, 13, 15, 16; 1 Peter 2:5.

NOTE.—"The state of corruption and

apostasy that in the last days would exist

in the religious world, was presented to the

prophet John, in the vision of Babylon,

`that great city, which reigneth over the

kings of the earth.' Revelation 17:18. Be-

fore its destruction the call is to be given

from heaven, 'Come out of her, My peo-

ple, that ye be not partakers of her sins,

and that ye receive not of her plagues.'

Revelation 18:4. As in the days of Noah

and Lot, there must be a marked separa-

tion from sin and sinners. There can be no

compromise between God and the world,

no turning back to secure earthly treasures.

`Ye cannot serve God and mammon.'

"—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 167.

NOTE.—"Notwithstanding the wide-

spread declension of faith and piety, there

are true followers of Christ in these

churches. Before the final visitation of

God's judgments upon the earth, there

will be among the people of the Lord such

a revival of primitive godliness as has not

been witnessed since apostolic times. The

Spirit and power of God will be poured

out upon His children. At that time

many will separate themselves from those

churches in which the love of this world

has supplanted love for God and His word.

Many, both of ministers and people, will

gladly accept those great truths which God

has caused to be proclaimed at this time

to prepare a people for the Lord's second

coming."—The

Great Controversy,

page

464.

What is God's plan for gather-

ing in those who are not yet in the

fold of safety? Matt. 28:19, 20. Com-

pare Matt 24:14.

NOTE.—"The Lord has ordained that the

diffusion of light and truth in the earth

shall be dependent upon the efforts and

offerings of those who are partakers of the

heavenly gift. He might have made angels

the ambassadors of His truth; He might

have made known His will, as He pro-

claimed the law from Sinai, with His own

voice; but in His infinite love and wisdom

He called men to become colaborers with

Himself, by choosing them to do this

work."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

528.

Perilous, Sinful Days Foretold

What description does the apos-

tle give of the general religious atmos-

phere of the last days? 2 Tim. 3:1, 5.

[4]

NOTE.—"As we near the close of earth's

history, perils and dangers thicken around

us. A mere profession of godliness will not

avail. There must be a living connection

with God, that we may have spiritual eye-

sight to discern the wickedness which is

in a most artful and secret manner creeping

into our midst through those who make a

profession of our

faith."—Testimonies,

vol. 5, p. 139.

"A form of godliness will not save any.

All must have a deep and living experience.

This alone will save them in the time of

trouble."—Ibid., vol. 1, p. 125.

What danger threatens those

who await the coming of the Lord?

Matt. 25:1-8.

NOTE.—"In this age of corruption when

our adversary the devil, as a roaring lion,

walketh about seeking whom he may de-

vour, I see the necessity of lifting my voice

in warning. 'Watch ye and pray, lest ye

enter into temptation.'

"—Testimonies, vol.

p. 146.

"The two classes of watchers represent

the two classes who profess to be waiting

for their Lord. They are called virgins

because they profess a pure faith." "The

class represented by the foolish virgins are

not hypocrites. They have a regard for the

truth, . . . but they have not yielded them-

selves to the Holy Spirit's working. . . .

They do not know God. . . . This is the

class that in time of peril are found cry-

ing, Peace and safety. . . . When startled

from their lethargy, they discern their des-

titution, and entreat others to supply their

lack."—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 406,

411.

Why was the man with one

talent condemned? Matt. 25:25-28.

NoTE.—"The unfaithful steward did not

enrich himself with his master's goods;

he merely wasted them. He let idleness

take the place of sincere, wholehearted

labor."—Testimonies,

vol. 6, p. 297.

What service does Christ expect

of His church? Acts 1:8.

NOTE.—"Shall we be less earnest than

were the apostles? Shall we not by living

faith claim the promises that moved them

to the depths of their being to call upon

the Lord Jesus for the fulfillment of His

word: 'Ask, and ye shall receive'? John

16:24. Is not the Spirit of God to come

today in answer to earnest, persevering

prayer, and fill men with power? . . . We

are to work with as much more fervor,

to be accompanied by the Holy Spirit in

as much greater measure, as the increase

of wickedness demands a more decided call

to repentance."—Testimonies, vol. 7, pp.

32, 33.

What judgment awaits the

watchmen who neglect to warn sin-

ners of their danger? Ezek. 3:18, 19.

NOTE.—"We are now living in the clos-

ing scenes of this world's history. Let men

tremble with the sense of the responsibility

of knowing the truth. The ends of the

world are come. . . . The weighty obliga-

tion of warning a world of its coming

doom is upon us. . . . A world, perishing

in sin, is to be enlightened. . . . Now is

the time for the last warning to be given."

—Evangelism,

pages 16, 17.

"As a people we greatly need to humble

our hearts before God, pleading His for-

giveness for our neglect to fulfill the gospel

commission. . . . Let us now take up

the work appointed us, and proclaim the

message that is to arouse men and women

to a sense of their danger."—Ibid., p. 17.

Spirit and Power

10.

What spirit will actuate

Christ's true followers? 1 John 4:

11-13.

NOTE.—"Love is the basis of godliness.

Whatever the profession, no man has pure

love to God unless he has unselfish love

for his brother. But we can never come

into possession of this spirit by

trying

love others. What is needed is the love

of Christ in the heart. When self is merged

in Christ, love springs forth spontane-

ously. . . . If we love God because He

first loved us, we shall love all for whom

Christ died. We cannot come in touch

[6]

with divinity without coming in touch

with humanity. . . . Connected with

Christ, we are connected with our fellow-

men by the golden links of the chain of

love."—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 384,

385.

11.

How important is love as the

motive for service? 1 Cor. 13:1-3.

NOTE.—"No matter how high his profes-

sion, he whose heart is not imbued with

love for God and for his fellowmen is not

a disciple of Christ. Though he should

possess great faith, and even have power

to work miracles, yet without love his

faith would be worthless. . . . The

strongest and noblest characters rest upon

the foundation of patience and love, and

trusting submission to the will of God.—

Testimonies, vol. 5,

p. 168.

12.

From what source did Paul de-

rive his enthusiasm to work for souls?

2 Cor. 5:14.

13.

How is God's final call of

mercy symbolically represented? Rev.

18:1.

NOTE.—"Great power and glory were

imparted to the angel, and as he descended,

the earth was lightened with his glory.

. . . Angels were sent to aid the mighty

angel from heaven. . . . The glory of

God rested upon the patient, waiting

saints, and they fearlessly gave the last

solemn warning, proclaiming the fall of

Babylon and calling upon God's people

to come out of her that they might escape

her fearful doom. . . . Some chose life

and took their stand with those who were

looking for their Lord and keeping all His

commandments. . . . Mighty miracles

were wrought, the sick were healed, and

signs and wonders followed the believers.

. . . I saw that this message will close

with power and strength far exceeding the

midnight

cry."—Early Writings,

pages 277,

278.

Lesson 2, for October 12, 1963

A Call to Revival

MEMORY VERSE:

"Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord

is risen upon thee." Isa. 60:1.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," chapter 20; "Christ's Object Lessons,"

pages 405-421 (chapter, "To Meet the Bridegroom"); "Patriarchs and Prophets,"

pages 71-79; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM: To

remind us of the source of our efficiency and power, and to en-

courage each individual to meet the conditions for receiving them.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;



further from study helps.



learn memory verse.



❑

Wednesday: Questions 11, 12; read

Sunday: Questions 1-4.



further from study helps.



Monday: Questions 5-7; begin read-



Thursday: Finish reading study

ing study helps.



helps. •



❑

Tuesday: Questions 8-10; read



Friday: Review entire lesson.



[ 6

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Call to Awake

Time for the indifferent to awake.

Rom. 13:11, 12.

Laodicean posture described. Rev.

3:15.

Dire consequences of this condi-

tion. Rev. 3:16.

Nearness of Christ's coming impels

action. Rev. 1:3 ; 22:12.

II. Promised Revival

5. Attitude of believers in day of

God's power. Ps. 110:3, first part.

How revival is accomplished. Joel

2:12, 13.

Prerequisites to the bestowal of

power. Acts 1:8.

Man's part in fulfillment of prom-

ise. Luke 11:9-13.

Fruits of the Spirit. Gal. 5:22, 23.

10.

Obedience a condition of answered

prayer. 1 John 3:22.

Ill. World Reaction

11.

Truth received in various ways.

Matt. 13:19-23.

12.

The Christian's positive attitude

toward persecution. 2 Cor. 12 :10.

Luke 6:22, 23; Phil. 3:8.

THE LESSON

need now to be imbued with the spirit of

Christ, and we should not rest until we

receive

it."-Testimonies, vol. 5,

pp.

161,

162.

2. How does Christ describe the

state of the Laodicean church? Rev.

3:15.

Introduction

"When we have entire, wholehearted

consecration to the service of Christ, GOd

will recognize the fact by an outpouring

of His Spirit without measure; but this

will not be while the largest portion of

the church are not laborers together with

God."-Evangelism,

page 699.

Call to Awake

1. With what urgent message did

the apostle Paul seek to awaken in-

different church members? Rom. 13:

11, 12.

NOTE.-"We must be much in prayer if

we would make progress in the divine life.

When the message of truth was first pro-

claimed, how much we prayed. How often

was the voice of intercession heard in the

chamber, in the barn, in the orchard, or

the grove. Frequently we spent hours in

earnest prayer, two or three together claim-

ing the promise; often the sound of weep-

ing was heard and then the voice of

thanksgiving and the song of praise. Now

the day of God is nearer than when we

first believed, and we should be more ear-

nest, more zealous, and fervent than in those

early days. Our perils are greater now

than then. Souls are more hardened. We

NOTE:

-"Never 'can

give the solemn

and vivid ,impression stamped upon my

mind, as

saw the • angel with the scales

weighing the thoughts and interest of the

people of God. Said the angel: 'Can such

enter heaven? No, no, never. Tell them

the hope they now possess is vain, and un-

less they speedily repent, and obtain salva-

tion, they must perish.' A form of godli-

ness will not save any. All must have a

deep and living experience. This alone will

save them in the time of trouble."-Testi-

monies, vol.

1, p.

125.

3. What dire consequences will fol-

low this lukewarm condition? Rev.

3:16.

NorE.-"Were you cold, there would be

some hope that you would be converted;

but where self-righteousness girds one

about, instead of the righteousness of

Christ, the deception is so difficult to be

seen,

and the self-righteousness so hard to

be put away, that the case is the most

difficult to reach. An unconverted, godless

sinner stands in a more favorable condi-

tion than

such."—Testimonies,

vol. 2, p. 176.

In view of the nearness of

Christ's coming, what attitude should

characterize each waiting believer?

Rev. 1:3; 22:12.

NoTE.—"Eternity stretches before us.

The curtain is about to be lifted. What

are we thinking of, that we cling to our

selfish love of ease, while all around us

souls are perishing? Have our hearts be-

come utterly callous? Can we not

see

and

understand that we have a work to do in

behalf of others? My brethren and sisters,

are you among those who, having eyes,

see not, and having ears, hear not? Is it

in vain that God has given you a knowl-

edge of His will? Is it in vain that He has

sent you warning after warning of the

nearness of the end? Do you believe the

declarations of His word concerning what

is coming upon the world? Do you be-

lieve that God's judgments are hanging

over the inhabitants of the earth? How,

then, can you sit at ease, careless and in-

different?"—Testimonies,

vol. 9, pp. 26, 27.

Promised Revival

What words of the psalmist ap-

propriately describe the attitude of

God's people in the day of His power?

Ps. 110:3, first part.

How did Joel say revival would

be accomplished? Joel 2:12, 13. Com-

pare Zech. 4:6; Matt. 3:11.

NOTE.—"The laborers will be qualified

rather by the unction of His Spirit than

by the training of literary institutions.

Men of faith and prayer will be constrained

to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the

words which God gives them."—The

Great

Controversy,

page 606.

What did Jesus say was to pre-

cede the apostles' acts of witnessing?

Acts 1:8.

NOTE.—"We are not to think that the

Spirit came into existence now for the first

time. It is quite possible for a power al-

ways to exist but for men to experience

or take it at some given moment. For

instance, men did not invent atomic power.

It always existed ; but only in our time

have men tapped it and experienced it. So

God is eternally Father, Son and Holy

Spirit, but there came to men a special

time when they experienced to the full

that power which had always been present.

"The power of the Spirit was going to

make them Christ's witnesses. That wit-

ness was to operate in an ever-extending

series of concentric circles, first in Jerusa-

lem, then throughout Judea; then Samaria,

the semi-Jewish state, would be a kind of

bridge leading out into the heathen world;

and finally this witness was to go out to

the ends of the earth."—William Barclay,

The Acts of the Apostles,

page 4.

What must we do in order to

receive the promise? Luke 11:9-13.

NOTE.—"Arise and go to your Father.

He will meet you a great way off. If you

take even one step toward Him in repent-

ance, He will hasten to enfold you in His

arms of infinite love. His ear is open to

the cry of the contrite soul. The very first

reaching out of the heart after God is

known to Him. Never a prayer is offered,

however faltering, never a tear is shed,

however secret, never a sincere desire af-

ter God is cherished, however feeble, but

the Spirit of God goes forth to meet it.

Even before the prayer is uttered or the

yearning of the heart made known, grace

from Christ goes forth to meet the grace

that is working upon the human soul."—

Christ's Object Lessons,

page 206.

What inner graces accompany

the Holy Spirit's presence? Gal. 5:

22, 23.

]

"The spirit of unselfish labor

for others gives depth, sta-

bility, and Christlike loveli-

ness to the character, and

brings peace and happiness

to its possessor."—Steps

Christ,

page 80.

NOTE.—"As you receive the spirit of

Christ—the spirit of unselfish love and

labor for others—you will grow and bring

forth fruit. The graces of the Spirit will

ripen in your character. Your faith will

increase, your convictions deepen, your

love be made perfect. . . . Were all who

profess His name bearing fruit to His

glory, how quickly the whole world would

be sown with the seed of the gospel. Quick-

ly the last great harvest would be ripened,

and Christ would come to gather the

precious

grain."—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 68, 69.

10. What essential condition to an-

swered prayer does John stress? 1

John 3:22.

NoTE.—"All true obedience comes from

the heart. It was heart work with Christ.

And if we consent, He will so identify

Himself with our thoughts and aims, so

blend our hearts and minds into conform-

ity to His will, that when obeying Him

we shall be but carrying out our own

impulses. The will, refined and sanctified,

will find its highest delight in doing His

service. When we know God as it is our

privilege to know Him, our life will be a

life of continual obedience. Through an

appreciation of the character of Christ,

through communion with God, sin will be-

come hateful to

us."—The Desire of Ages,

page 668.

World Reaction

11.

In what varied ways will the

gospel message be received? Matt.

13:19-23.

NoTE.—"The spirit of the world is no

more in harmony with the spirit of Christ

today than in earlier times, and those who

preach the word of God in its purity will

be received with no greater favor now

than then. The forms of opposition to the

truth may change, the enmity may be less

open because it is more subtle; but the

same antagonism still exists and will be

manifested to the end of time."—The

Great

Controversy,

page 144.

12.

What should be the attitude of

the Christian toward persecution? 2

Cor. 12:10; Luke 6:22, 23; Phil. 3:8.

NoTE.—"God is bending from His throne

to hear the cry of the oppressed. To every

sincere prayer He answers, 'Here am I.'

He uplifts the distressed and downtrodden.

In all our afflictions He is afflicted. In

every temptation and every trial the angel

of His presence is near to deliver."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 356.

Lesson 3, for October 19, 1963

Warnings Against Apostasy

MEMORY VERSE:

"Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things

which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip." Heb. 2:1.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," chapter 3; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages

103-114; "Testimonies," vol. 5, pp. 542-549; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To reaffirm our belief in the ideals of the Christian faith, and to

show the divine requirement for reaching them.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;



Wednesday: Questions 10-13.



learn memory verse.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-3.

❑

Monday: Questions 4-6.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 7-9; begin

reading study helps.

❑

Thursday: Finish reading study

helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Standard of Perfection

Spiritual perfection, the goal. Eph.

5:27.

A solemn appeal to the people of

God. 1 Peter 2:9-12.

Tares among the wheat. Matt.

13:26.

Eyes to be fixed on Jesus. Heb. 12:

1, 2.

II. Divine Essentials

No progress without prayer. Mark.

14:38.

Daily Bible study essential. Ps.

119:9, 11; Acts 17:11.

III. Meeting Obstacles

Christians subjected to extreme

social pressures. Matt. 10:35, 36.

All man's needs to be supplied. Phil.

4:19.

Attitude toward divisive elements.

Rom. 16:17, 18.

IV.

Apostasy and Loyalty

10.

Some hold form of godliness

2 Tim. 3:1, 5.

11.

The faithful give heed to doctrines.

1 Tim. 4:1, 2, 6, 7, 11-16.

12.

The backslider described. 2 Peter

2:21, 22.

13.

The Christian must hold fast. Heb.

10:35-39.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"We are to use every power of our be-

ing in His service, and after we have done

our utmost, we are still to regard ourselves

as unprofitable servants. Divine power will

unite with our efforts, and as we cling to

God with the hand of faith, Christ will im-

part to us His wisdom and His righteous-

ness. Thus, by His grace, we shall be

enabled to build upon the sure founda-

tion."-Evangelism, page 596.

The Standard of Perfection

To what

high standard must the

church attain on earth before her en-

trance into the kingdom of

God?

Eph. 5:27.

NOTE.

-"The

Christian life is constantly

an onward march. Jesus sits as a refiner

and purifier of His people; and when His

image is perfectly reflected in them, they

are perfect and holy, and prepared for

translation. A great work is required of

the Christian. We are exhorted to cleanse

ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh

and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear

of God. Here we see where the great labor

rests. There is a constant work for the

Christian."-Testimonies, vol. 1,

p. 340.

What solemn appeal does Peter

make? 1 Peter 2:9-12.

NOTE.

-"When

He comes He is not to

cleanse us of our sins, to remove from

us the defects in our character, or to cure

us of the infirmities of our tempers and

dispositions. If wrought for us at all, this

work will all be accomplished before that

time. When the Lord comes, those who

are holy will be holy still. Those who have

preserved their bodies and spirits in holi-

ness, in sanctification and honor, will then

receive the finishing touch of immortality.

. . .It is now that this work is to be

accomplished for us. . . . We are now

in God's workshop. Many of us are rough

stones from the quarry. But as we lay

hold upon the truth of God, its influence

affects us. It elevates us, and removes from

us every imperfection and sin, of what-

ever nature. Thus we are prepared to see

the King in His beauty, and finally to

unite with the pure and heavenly angels

in the kingdom of

glory."—Counsels on

Health,

page 44.

What condition will be found

in the church as we near the end of

time? Matt. 13:26.

NOTE.—"The church of Christ on earth

will be imperfect, but God does not de-

stroy His church because of its imperfec-

tion. . . . There is to be no spasmodic,

zealous, hasty action taken by church mem-

bers in cutting off those they may think

defective in character. Tares will appear

among the wheat; but it would do more

harm to weed out the tares, unless in

God's appointed way, than to leave them

alone. While the Lord brings into the

church those who are truly converted,

Satan at the same time brings persons who

are not converted into its fellowship."—

Testimonies to Ministers,

page 46.

What enables us to run the

Christian race with patience? Heb.

12:1, 2.

Divine Essentials

What does the Master say of the

need of prayer? Mark 14:38.

NoTE.—"I have been shown that many

are in the greatest danger of failing to per-

fect holiness in the fear of the Lord. . . .

They do not see the importance of self-

knowledge and self-control. They do not

watch and pray, lest they enter into temp-

tation. If they would watch, they would

become acquainted with their weak points,

where they are most likely to be assailed

by temptation. With watchfulness and

prayer their weakest points can be so

guarded as to become their strongest points,

and they can encounter temptation with-

out being

overcome."—Testimonies,

vol. 2,

p. 511.

How important is daily Bible

study to spiritual growth? Ps. 119:9,

11; Acts 17:11.

NorE.—"Temptations often appear ir-

resistible because, through neglect of prayer

and the study of the Bible, the tempted

one cannot readily remember God's prom-

ises and meet Satan with the Scripture

weapons. But angels are round about those

who are willing to be taught in divine

things; and in the time of great necessity

they will bring to their remembrance the

very truths which are needed. . . . But

the teachings of Christ must previously

have been stored in the mind in order for

the Spirit of God to bring them to our

remembrance in the time of peril. 'Thy

word have I hid in mine heart,' said David,

`that I might not sin against thee.'

"—The

Great Controversy,

page 600.

Meeting Obstacles

In what words did Christ in-

dicate that the Christian would be

subjected to extreme pressure? Matt.

10:35, 36.

NoTE.—"The truth of God has never

been popular with the world. The natural

heart is ever averse to the truth. I thank

God that we must renounce the love of

the world, and pride of heart, and every-

thing which tends to idolatry, in order to

be followers of the Man of Calvary. Those

who obey the truth will never be loved

and honored by the

world."—Testimonies,

vol. 2, p. 491.

What assurance is given that all

man's needs will be supplied? Phil.

4:19. Compare Isa. 43:2.

NoTE.—"He who has given his life to

God in ministry to His children is linked

with Him who has all the resources of the

universe at His command. His life is bound

up by the golden chain of the immutable

promises with the life of God. The Lord

will not fail him in the hour of suffering

and need. 'My God shall supply all your

need according to His riches in glory by

Christ Jesus.' Philippians 4:19. And in

the hour of final need the merciful shall

find refuge in the mercy of the compas-

sionate Saviour and shall be received into

everlasting habitations."—Thoughts

From

the Mount of Blessing,

page 24.

What should be the Christian's

attitude toward those who cause divi-

sions in the church? Rom. 16:17, 18.

Apostasy and Loyalty

10.

What attitude should the Chris-

tian take toward those who hold

merely a form of godliness? 2 Tim.

3:1, 5.

NOTE.—"How often, in our own day,

is the love of pleasure disguised by a 'form

of godliness'! A religion that permits

men, while observing the rites of worship,

to devote themselves to selfish or sensual

gratification, is as pleasing to the multi-

tudes now as in the days of Israel. And

there are still pliant Aarons, who, while

holding positions of authority in the

church, will yield to the desires of the un-

consecrated, and thus encourage them in

sin."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 317.

11.

As some departed from the

faith, what did Paul urge Timothy to

do? 1 Tim. 4:1, 2, 6, 7, 11-16.

NOTE.—"A time of trouble is before us,

and every honest soul who has not had the

light of truth will then take a stand for

Christ. Those who believe the truth are

to be newly converted every

day."—Testi-

monies to Ministers,

page 248.

12.

How does Peter describe the

backslider? 2 Peter 2:21, 22.

NOTE.—"Those who have once rejoiced

in the evidence of sins forgiven, who have

tasted a Saviour's love and who then per-

sist in uniting with the foes of Christ, re-

jecting the perfect righteousness that Jesus

offers them and choosing the ways that

He has condemned, will be more severely

judged than the heathen who have never

had the light and have never known God

or His law. . . . Their guilt and their

wages will be proportionate to the light

and privileges which they have had."—Tes-

tintonies, vol.

3, pp. 365, 366.

13.

What admonition is partic-

ularly appropriate in a time of luke-

warmness and apostasy? Heb. 10:35-

39.

NOTE.—"Now is the time for God's peo-

ple to show themselves true to principle.

When the religion of Christ is most held

in contempt, when His law is most de-

spised, then should our zeal be the warmest

and our courage and firmness the most un-

flinching. To stand in defense of truth

and righteousness when the majority for-

sake us, to fight the battles of the Lord

when champions are few—this will be our

test. At this time we must gather warmth

from the coldness of others, courage from

their cowardice, and loyalty from their

treason."—Testimonies, vol. 5,

p. 136.

LESSON QUARTERLIES FOR THE BLIND

The senior Sabbath school lessons, slightly condensed, are pub-

lished each quarter in Braille and supplied free to the blind upon

request. Address: The Christian Record Benevolent Association, Box 66,

Lincoln 6, Nebraska.

[12

]

Lesson 4, for October 26, 1963

Fidelity in the Gathering Storm

MEMORY VERSE:

"Trust ye in the Lord forever: for in the Lord Jehovah is ever-

lasting strength." Isa. 26:4.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," chapters 17, 34, 35, 36; "S.D.A. Bible

Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To warn against any alliance that would destroy the church, and

to remind us of the ultimate triumph of the faithful.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 12, 13; read

learn memory verse.

❑

further from study helps.

❑

Sunday: Questions



1-4.

❑

Thursday: Finish reading study

Monday: Questions 5-8.

❑

helps.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 9-11; begin

Friday: Review entire lesson.

❑

reading study helps.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Signs of the Times

Christ will come unexpectedly.

1 Thess. 5:2, 4, 5.

2. Disturbances in nature predicted.

Luke 21:25.

3. Sins of the last days portrayed.

2 Tim. 3:1-6.

4. The world has made void God's

law. Ps. 119:126.

II. God's Standard Altered

5. Attempt to change God's law. Dan.

7:25.

Apparent success of the counter-

feit. 2 Thess. 2:8-11; Rev. 13:3, 4.

Persecution to be revived. Rev. 13:

15-17; 1 Peter 4:12.

III. An Unholy Alliance

The rise of spiritism predicted. Rev.

16:14; 13:13.

Christ described deceptive miracles.

Matt. 24:24.

10.

Basic error of spiritism. Gen. 3:4.

11.

Tradition often nullifies truth.

Matt. 15:3.

12.

Warnings against deceptive work-

ings. Matt. 24:9-11.

13.

Promises to the faithful. Matt.

24:13; Isa. 26:4.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"Confederacies will increase in number

and power as we draw nearer to the end

of time. These confederacies will create

opposing influences to the truth, forming

new parties of professed believers who

will act out their own delusive theories.

The apostacy will increase."-Evangelism,

page 363.

Signs of the Times

1. With what is the unexpected-

ness of Christ's coming compared, and

who, of all people, should be alert to

its nearness? 1 Thess. 5:2, 4, 5.

f13

]

NOTE.—"It is now that we must keep

ourselves and our children unspotted from

the world. It is now that we must wash

our robes of character and make them

white in the blood of the Lamb. It is now

that we must overcome pride, passion, and

spiritual slothfulness. It is now that we

must awake and make determined effort

for symmetry of

character."—Testimonies,

vol.

5, pp. 215, 216.

What disturbances in nature

and among nations are predicted as

signs of the approaching end? Luke

21:25.

NOTE.—"The attention of the people

should be called to the momentous event

which is so near at hand. The signs of

the times should be kept fresh before their

minds. The prophetic visions of Daniel and

John foretell a period of moral darkness

and declension ; but at the time of the end,

the time in which we are now living, the

vision was to speak and not lie. When

the signs predicted begin to come to

pass, the waiting, watching ones are bid-

den to look up and lift up their heads

and rejoice because their redemption draw-

eth nigh. . . .

"Thank God, all will not be rocked to

sleep in the cradle of carnal security. There

will be faithful ones who will discern the

signs of the times. While a large number

professing present truth will deny their

faith by their works, there will be some

who will endure unto the

end."—Testi-

monies, vol.

5, pp. 9, 10.

How are the last days portrayed

in the Scriptures? 2 Tim. 3:1-6.

NoTE.—"There is coming rapidly and

surely an almost universal guilt upon the

inhabitants of the cities, because of the

steady increase of determined wickedness.

The corruption that prevails is beyond the

power of the human pen to describe. Every

day brings fresh revelations of strife,

bribery, and fraud; every day brings its

heart-sickening record of violence and law-

lessness, of indifference to human suffering,

of brutal, fiendish destruction of human

life. Every day testifies to the increase

of insanity, murder, and suicide. . . . Men

boast of the wonderful progress and en-

lightenment of the age in which we are now

living; but God sees the earth filled with

iniquity and violence. . . . The black rec-

ord of crime committed for the sake of gain

is enough to chill the blood and fill the soul

with

horror."—Prophets and Kings,

page

275.

What will God do when men

have made void His law? Ps. 119:126.

NOTE.—"Like David, we may now pray,

`It is time for Thee, Lord, to work: for

they have made void Thy law.' Men have

gone on in disobedience to God's law until

they have reached a point of insolence that

is unparalleled. Men are training in dis-

obedience, and are fast approaching the

limit of God's forbearance and love, and

God will surely interfere. He will surely

vindicate His honor and repress the pre-

vailing iniquity. Will God's command-

ment-keeping people be carried away with

the prevailing iniquity? . . . No. To

His church His law becomes more precious,

holy, honorable, as men cast upon it scorn

and

contempt."—Testimonies to Ministers,

page 21.

God's Standard Altered

According to Daniel the prophet,

what was to be done against God,

His law, and His people? Dan. 7:25.

NorE.—"Men will surely set up their

laws to counterwork the laws of God.

They will seek to compel the consciences

of others, and in their zeal to enforce these

laws they will oppress their fellowmen.

"The warfare against God's law, which

was begun in heaven, will be continued

until the end of time. Every man will be

tested. . . . All will be called to choose

between the laws of God and the laws of

men."—The Desire of Ages,

page 763.

To what extent will the world

be deceived in the last days? Why?

2 Thess. 2:8-11; Rev. 13:3, 4.

L 14 3

NOTE.—"Worshiping the beast is in fact

worshiping the dragon, for the beast is

but the visible agency of the dragon, car-

rying out the dragon's program. The era

of the revived papacy will also be char-

acterized by a period when spiritism is

especially active. Back of spiritism is Satan

working 'with all deceivableness of un-

righteousness' (2 Thess. 2

:10)."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Rev. 13:4.

How severe will persecution be?

Rev. 13:15-17; 1 Peter 4:12.

NOTE.—"Fearful is the issue to which

the world is to be brought. The powers

of earth, uniting to war against the com-

mandments of God, will decree that 'all,

both small and great, rich and poor, free

and bond' (Revelation 13:16), shall con-

form to the customs of the church by the

observance of the false sabbath. All who

refuse compliance will be visited with civil

penalties, and it will finally be declared

that they are deserving of death."—The

Great Controversy,

page 604.

An Unholy Alliance

How does the apostle John de-

scribe the workings of spirits of

devils? Rev. 16:14; 13:13.

NoTE.—"Many will be ensnared through

the belief that spiritualism is a merely

human imposture; when brought face to

face with manifestations which they can-

not but regard as supernatural, they will

be deceived, and will be led to accept them

as the great power of God. . . . 'He

doeth great wonders, so that he maketh

fire come down from heaven on the earth

in the sight of men, and deceiveth them

that dwell on the earth by the means of

those miracles which he had power to do.'

Revelation 13:13, 14. No mere impostures

are here foretold. Men are deceived by the

miracles which Satan's agents have power

to do, not which they pretend to do."—

The Great Controversy,

page 553.

How did Christ describe decep-

tive miracles? Matt. 24:24.

Norc.—"I saw that the saints must get

a thorough understanding of present truth,

which they will be obliged to maintain

from the Scriptures. They must under-

stand the state of the dead; for the spirits

of devils will yet appear to them, professing

to be beloved friends and relatives, who

will declare to them that the Sabbath

has been changed, also other unscriptural

doctrines. They will do all in their power

to excite sympathy and will work miracles

before them to confirm what they declare.

. . . We must examine well the founda-

tion of our hope, for we shall have to

give a reason for it from the Scriptures."

—Early Writings,

pages 87, 88.

10.

What satanic falsehood ac-

cepted by many professed Christians

renders them susceptible to spiritism?

Gen. 3:4.

NoTE.—"Satan commenced his deception

in Eden. He said to Eve, 'Ye shall not

surely die.' This was Satan's first lesson

upon the immortality of the soul, and he

has carried on this deception from that

time to the present, and will carry it on

until the captivity of God's children shall

be turned. .



. It was a marvel to me

that Satan could succeed so well in mak-

ing men believe that the words of God,

`The soul that sinneth, it shall die,' mean

that the soul that sinneth it shall not die,

but live eternally in

misery."—Early Writ-

ings,

page 218.

11.

What effect can adherence to

tradition have? Matt. 15:3.

NOTE.—"The substitution of the precepts

of men for the commandments of God has

not ceased. Even among Christians are

found institutions and usages that have

no better foundation than the traditions

of the fathers. Such institutions, resting

upon mere human authority, have sup-

planted those of divine appointment. Men

cling to their traditions, and revere their

customs, and cherish hatred against those

who seek to show them their error. .



Let all who accept human authority, the

customs of the church, or the traditions

[15

]

of the fathers, take heed to the warning

conveyed in the words of Christ, 'In vain

they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines

the commandments of men.'

"—The Desire

of Ages,

page 398.

12. Of what deceptive workings did

Christ give warning? Matt. 24:9-11.

NOTE.—"The world at large are under

the control of Satan, Christ's bitterest

foe. The gospel presents to them principles

of life which are wholly at variance with

their habits and desires, and they rise in

rebellion against it. They hate the purity

which reveals and condemns their sins,

"Shrinking from hardship,

complaining under tribula-

tion, makes the servants of

God weak and inefficient."

—Gospel Workers,

page 266.

and they persecute and destroy those who

would urge upon them its just and holy

claims."—The

Great Controversy,

page 47.

13.

What precious promises are

made to those who hold fast their

faith in the time of final testing?

Matt. 24:13; Isa. 26:4.

Lesson 5, for November 2, 1963

Righteousness Through Christ

MEMORY VERSE:

"Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Thy

law is the truth." Ps. 119:142.

STUDY HELPS:

"Christ's Object Lessons," pages 307-319; "Testimonies," vol. 8,

pp. 247-254; "Steps to Christ," pages 43-48 (chapter, "Consecration"); "S.D.A.

Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To show the utter futility of human striving for merit with God,

our total depedence upon Christ, and heaven's enabling power.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD



Check Here



Check

Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;



Wednesday: Questions 11-13; con-

learn memory verse.



❑



tinue reading study helps.



Sunday: Questions 1-4.



❑



Thursday: Finish reading study

Monday: Questions 5-7.



❑



helps.

Tuesday: Questions 8-10; begin



Friday: Review entire lesson.

reading study helps.



Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Man and the Divine Ideal

God's ideal for man.

Matt.

5:48;

Phil. 3:14, 15.

Man incapable of righteousness.

Rom. 7:18, 19.

Man's so-called righteousness as

filthy rags. Isa. 64:6.

His need of divine help. Rom. 7:24.

II.

Divine

Provision

Provision for man's redemption. 1

Peter 2:24.

Man makes the decision. Rom. 6:16.

[ 16

Faith claims divine grace. Rom.

5:1, 2.

III. The Divine Operation

Past transgressions are forgiven.

Isa. 44:22.

Strength to meet temptation prom-

ised. 1 Cor. 10:13.

10.

Obedience the result of inner grace.

1 John 2:2-4.

IV. Encouragement

11.

Sanctification is progressive. 1 Cor.

15:31; Phil. 3:13, 14.

12.

The repentant sinner is not cast

off. 1 John 2:1.

13.

He is given assurance of victory.

Isa. 49:15, 16; John 10:29.

THE LESSON

introduction

"God does not give us up because of

our sins. We may make mistakes, and

grieve His Spirit; but when we repent,

and come to Him with contrite hearts,

He will not turn us away. There are

hindrances to be removed. Wrong feelings

have been cherished, and there have been

pride, self-sufficiency, impatience, and mur-

murings. All these separate us from God.

Sins must be confessed ; there must be a

deeper work of grace in the

heart."-Se-

lected Messages,

b. 1, pp. 350, 351.

Man and the Divine Ideal

Toward what lofty ideal is the

Christian to aspire? Matt. 5:48; Phil.

3:14, 15.

NOTE.-"The

Lord requires no less of the

soul now, than He required of Adam in

Paradise before he fell-perfect obedience,

unblemished righteousness."-Selected

Mes-

sages,

b. 1, p. 373.

To what extent is man able to

satisfy God's requirements? Rom. 7:

18, 19.

NoTE.-"We look to self, as though we

had power to save ourselves; but Jesus

died for us because we are helpless to do

this."-Selected Messages,

b. 1, p. 351.

How does God regard all human

attempts at righteousness? Isa. 64:6.

NOTE.

-"We have not looked away from

ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living

Saviour. We must not think that our own

grace and merits will save us; the grace

of Christ is our only hope of salvation.

. . . We must believe the naked promise,

and not accept feeling for

faith."-Selected

Messages,

b. 1, p. 351.

In what poignant words does

Paul express man's need for divine

help? Rom. 7:24.

NOTE.

-"Man

needs a power out of and

above himself to restore him to the like-

ness of

God."-Selected Messages,

b. 1, p.

375.

"Without the grace of Christ it is im-

possible to take one step in obedience to

the law of

God."-Ibid.,

372.

Divine Provision

By what great act of mercy did

God make possible man's redemp-

tion? 1 Peter 2:24.

NOTE.-"The

Redeemer of the world

clothed His divinity with humanity, that

He might reach humanity; for it took the

divine and the human to bring into the

world the salvation that was needed by

fallen man. Divinity needed humanity that

humanity might afford a channel of com-

munication between God and man."-Se-

lected Messages,

b. 1, p.

375.

"By His life and His death, Christ has

achieved even more than recovery from

[ 17 1

the ruin wrought through sin. It was

Satan's purpose to bring about an eternal

separation between God and man; but in

Christ we become more closely united

to God than if we had never fallen. In

taking our nature, the Saviour has bound

Himself to humanity by a tie that is never

to be broken. Through the eternal ages

He is linked with us. 'God so loved the

world, that He gave His only-begotten

Son.' John 3:16. He gave Him not only

to bear our sins and to die as our sacrifice;

He gave Him to the fallen race. To assure

us of His immutable counsel of peace, God

gave His only-begotten Son to become one

of the human family, forever to retain

His human nature. This is the pledge that

God will fulfill His word."—The

Desire of

Ages,

page 25.

What act of the human will

opens or shuts the door to righteous-

ness? Rom. 6:16.

NOTE.—"God requires the entire sur-

render of the heart, before justification can

take place; and in order for man to retain

justification, there must be continual obedi-

ence, through active, living faith that

works by love and purifies the

soul."—Se-

lected Messages,

b. 1, p. 366.

By what means may humanity

lay active claim to divine grace? Rom.

5:1, 2.

NOTE.—"This faith leads its possessor

to place all the affections of the soul upon

Christ; his understanding is under the

control of the Holy Spirit, and his char-

acter is molded after the divine likeness.

His faith is not a dead faith, but a faith

that works by love, and leads him to be-

hold the beauty of Christ, and to become

assimilated to the divine character."—Se-

lected

Messages,

b. 1, pp. 391, 392.

The Divine Operation

To the sinner who trusts fully

in Christ's merits, what assurance is

given concerning past transgressions?

Isa. 44:22.

NOTE.—"The great work that is wrought

for the sinner who is spotted and stained

by evil is the work of justification. By

Him who speaketb truth he is declared

righteous. The Lord imputes unto the be-

liever the righteousness of Christ and pro-

nounces him righteous before the universe.

He transfers his sins to Jesus, the sinner's

representative, substitute, and surety."—

Selected Messages,

b. 1, p. 392.

What provision is made for

meeting temptation? 1 Cor. 10:13.

NoTE.—"But though Christ is every-

thing, . . . we are to strive, wrestle,

agonize, watch, pray, lest we shall be over-

come by the wily foe. For the power and

grace with which we can do this comes

from God, and all the while we are to

trust in Him, who is able to save to the

uttermost all who come unto God by Him."

—Selected Messages,

b. 1, p. 381.

10.

What is revealed in the life of

the man who has been justified by

faith? 1 John 2:2-4.

NOTE.—"The law is to be presented to

its trangressors, not as something apart

from God, but rather as an exponent of

His mind and character. As the sunlight

cannot be separated from the sun, so God's

law cannot be rightly presented to man

apart from the divine Author. . . . It

reproves sin, it condemns the sinner, but

it shows him his need of Christ, with

whom is plenteous mercy and goodness

and

truth."—Selected Messages,

b. 1, p. 371.

Encouragement

11.

What words of the apostle Paul

indicate that perfection of character is

not suddenly attained? 1 Cor. 15:31;

Phil. 3:13, 14.

NOTE.—"The Scriptures plainly show

that the work of sanctification is progres-

sive."—The

Great Controversy,

page 470.

[ 18

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;

learn memory verse.

Sunday: Questions 1-4.

Monday: Questions 5, 6; begin

reading study helps.

Check Here

Tuesday: Questions 7-10; read

❑

further from study helps.

❑

Wednesday: Questions 11-13.

Thursday: Finish reading study

❑

helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

"Sanctification is not the work of a

moment, an hour, a day, but of a lifetime."

—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 560.

12. What provision has been made

for the repentant sinner? 1 John 2:1.

NOTE.—"There are those who have

known the pardoning love of Christ and

who

really desire

to be children of God,

yet they realize that their character is

imperfect, their life faulty, and they are

ready to doubt whether their hearts have

been renewed by the Holy Spirit. To such

I would say, Do not draw back in despair.

We shall often have to bow down and

weep at the feet of Jesus because of our

shortcomings and mistakes, but we are

not to be discouraged. Even if we are

overcome by the enemy, we are not cast

off, not forsaken and rejected of God."—

Steps to Christ,

page 64. (Italics ours.)

These encouraging words should inspire

each student to seek anew, through re-

pentant faith, the favor of our Lord and

Saviour.

13. How secure is one who gives

himself wholeheartedly to Christ? Isa.

49:15, 16; John 10:29.

NOTE.—"The character is revealed, not

by occasional good deeds and occasional

misdeeds, but by the tendency of the

habitual words and

acts."—Steps to Christ,

pages 57, 58.

Lesson 6, for November 9, 1963

The Seal of the Living God

MEMORY VERSE:

"Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have

sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads." Rev. 7:3.

STUDY HELPS:

"Testimonies," vol. 5, pp. 207-216; vol. 6, pp. 349-356; "The Great

Controversy," chapter 25; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To identify the seal of the living God and to cite the conditions

for receiving it.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Seal of God

God delays the work of destruc-

tion. Rev. 7:1-3.

God's servants sealed. Rev. 7:4.

God's name written on the fore-

head. Rev. 14:1.

The character of the 144,000. Rev.

14:4, 5.

II. The Mark of the Beast

The distinguishing mark of apos-

tasy. Rev. 13:11-17.

The punishment threatened for re-

ceiving the mark of the beast. Rev.

14:9-11.

Ill. A Distinguishing Sign

Commandment keeping character-

izes saints. Rev. 14:12.

The Sabbath a sign between God

and His people. Ezek. 20:12, 20.

The identification of the Lawgiver.

Ex. 20:8-11.

10.

True Sabbath keeping described.

Isa. 58:13, 14.

IV. The Results of the Conflict

11.

Punishment meted out on the fol-

lowers of the beast. Rev. 19:19-21.

12.

Rewards bestowed on victors over

beast. Rev. 15:2-4.

13.

Privileges of the faithful. Rev. 22:

3-5.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"As the disrespect for God's law be-

comes more manifest, the line of demarca-

tion between its observers and the world

becomes more distinct. Love for the divine

precepts increases with one class accord-

ing as contempt for them increases with

another class.

"The crisis is fast approaching. The

rapidly swelling figures show that the time

for God's visitation has about come. Al-

though loath to punish, nevertheless He

will punish, and that speedily. Those who

walk in the light will see signs of the ap-

proaching peril; but they are not to sit

in quiet, unconcerned expectancy of the

ruin, comforting themselves with the be-

lief that God will shelter His people in the

day of visitation. Far from it. They

should realize that it is their duty to labor

diligently to save others, looking with

strong faith to God for

help."—Testi-

monies, vol.

5, p. 209.

The Seal of God

While John in vision watched

four angels holding the four winds

of the earth, what special messenger

from God appeared, and what was

his announcement? Rev. 7:1-3.

Upon how many of God's ser-

vants was the seal affixed? Rev. 7:4.

NoTE.—"What is the seal of the living

God, which is placed in the foreheads of

His people? It is a mark which angels,

but not human eyes, can read; for the de-

stroying angel must see this mark of re-

demption."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol.

7, p. 968.

"In a little while everyone who is a child

of God will have His seal placed upon him.

O that it may be placed upon our fore-

heads! Who can endure the thought of

being passed by when the angel goes forth

to seal the servants of God in their fore-

heads

?"—Ibid.,

pp. 969, 970.

When John in a later vision saw

144,000 standing with the Lamb on

Mount Zion, what did he see in their

foreheads? Rev. 14:1.

NOTE.—"Unless the name of God is

written in your forehead,—written there

because God is the center of your thoughts,

—you will not be meet for the inheritance

light."—Counsels on Stewardship,

page

46.

How is the character of the

144,000 described? Rev. 14:4, 5.

NOTE.—"Are we striving with all our

power to attain to the stature of men and

women in Christ? Are we seeking for His

fullness, ever pressing toward the mark

set before us—the perfection of His char-

acter? When the Lord's people reach this

mark, they will be sealed in their fore-

heads. Filled with the Spirit, they will

be complete in Christ, and the recording

[ 20 ]

angel will declare, 'It is finished.' "—Ellen

G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary,

vol. 6, p. 1118.

"Not one of us will ever receive the seal

of God while our characters have one spot

or stain upon them." "The seal of God will

never be placed upon the forehead of an

impure man or woman. It will never be

placed upon the forehead of the ambitious,

world-loving man or woman. It will never

be placed upon the forehead of men or

women of false tongues or deceitful hearts.

All who receive the seal must be without

spot before God—candidates for heaven."

—Testimonies, vol. 5,

pp. 214, 216.

Why should anyone hear the

gospel twice before everyone

has heard it once?

The Mark of the Beast

5. In John's vision of apostate, per-

secuting powers, how are the wor-

shipers of the beast and his image

distinguished? Rev. 13:11-17.

NorE.—The Greek of verse 17 may very

properly be translated as follows: "No

one was allowed to buy or sell unless he

bore this beast's mark, either name or

number."

(The New English Bible, ©

The

Delegates of the Oxford University Press

and the Syndics of the Cambridge Univer-

sity Press. Used by permission of the Ox-

ford University Press.)

"If the light of truth has been presented

to you, revealing the Sabbath of the fourth

commandment, and showing that there is

no foundation in the word of God for

Sunday observance, and yet you still cling

to the false sabbath, refusing to keep

holy the Sabbath which God calls 'My

holy day,' you receive the mark of the

beast. When does this take place? When

you obey the decree that commands you

to cease from labor on Sunday and wor-

ship God, while you know that there is

not a word in the Bible showing Sunday

to be other than a common working day,

you consent to receive the mark of the

beast, and refuse the seal of God."—Ellen

G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary, vol.

7, p. 980.

"Sundaykeeping is not yet the mark of

the beast, and will not be until the de-

cree goes forth causing men to worship

this idol sabbath. The time will come

when this day will be the test, but that

time has not come

yet."—Ibid.,

p. 977.

What fearful punishment is

threatened against those who receive

the mark of the beast? Rev. 14:9-11.

A Distinguishing Sign

In this period of conflict, how

are the saints characterized? Rev. 14:

12. Compare Rev. 12:17.

NOTE.—"Obedience is the test of disciple-

ship. It is the keeping of the command-

ments that proves the sincerity of our pro-

fessions of love. When the doctrine we

accept kills sin in the heart, purifies the

soul from defilement, bears fruit unto holi-

ness, we may know that it is the truth

God."—Thoughts From the Mount of

Blessing,

page 146.

What command of the Decalogue

did God single out as a special sign

between Him and His people? Ezek.

20:12, 20.

NOTE.—"The Sabbath is a sign of the

relationship existing between God and

His people, a sign that they are His obedi-

ent subjects, that they keep holy His law.

The observance of the Sabbath is the

means ordained by God of preserving a

knowledge of Himself and of distinguish-

ing between His loyal subjects and the

transgressors of His

law."—Testimonies,

vol. 8, p. 198.

How is God who gave the Sab-

bath identified? Ex. 20:8-11.

[ 21 ]

NoTE.—"The seal of God's law is found

in the fourth commandment. This only,

of all the ten, brings to view both the

name and the title of the Lawgiver. It

declares Him to be the Creator of the

heavens and the earth, and thus shows

His claim to reverence and worship above

all others. Aside from this precept, there

is nothing in the Decalogue to show by

whose authority the law is given. When

the Sabbath was changed by the papal

power, the seal was taken from the law.

The disciples of Jesus are called upon to

restore it by exalting the Sabbath of the

fourth commandment to its rightful posi-

tion as the Creator's memorial and the

sign of His authority."—The

Great Con-

troversy,

page 452.

10. In God's appeal to ancient

Israel through Isaiah, how is true

Sabbath keeping described? Isa. 58:

13, 14.

NOTE.—"Those who desire to have the

seal of God in their foreheads must keep

the Sabbath of the fourth commandment."

—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible

Commentary, vol.

7, p. 981.

"Not all who profess to keep the Sab-

bath will be sealed. There are many

even among those who teach the truth to

others who will not receive the seal of

God in their

foreheads."—Testimonies,

vol.

5, pp. 213, 214.

"The seal of the living God is placed

upon those who conscientiously keep the

Sabbath of the Lord."—Ellen G. White

Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary, vol.

7, p. 980.

"To those who keep holy the Sabbath

day it is the sign of sanctification. True

sanctification is harmony with God, one-

ness with Him in character. It is received

through obedience to those principles that

are the transcript of His character. And

the Sabbath is the sign of obedience. He

who from the heart obeys the fourth com-

mandment will obey the whole

law."—Tes-

timonies,

vol. 6, p. 350.

"We are not merely to observe the Sab-

bath as a legal matter. We are to under-

stand its spiritual bearing upon all the

transactions of life. All who regard the

Sabbath as a sign between them and God,

showing that He is the God who sanctifies

them, will represent the principles of His

government. They will bring into daily

practice the laws of His kingdom. Daily

it will be their prayer that the sanctifica-

tion of the Sabbath may rest upon them.

Every day they will have the companion-

ship of Christ and will exemplify the per-

fection of His character. Every day their

light will shine forth to others in good

works."—Ibid.,

pp. 353, 354.

The Results of the Conflict

11.

Where did John finally see

those who had received the mark of

the beast and his image? Rev. 19:

19-21.

NOTE.—"For six thousand years the

great controversy has been in progress; the

Son of God and His heavenly messengers

have been in conflict with the power of

the evil one, to warn, enlighten, and save

the children of men. Now all have made

their decision; the wicked have fully united

with Satan in his warfare against God. The

time has come for God to vindicate the

authority of His downtrodden law. Now

the controversy is not alone with Satan,

but with men."—The

Great Controversy,

page 656.

12.

Where did John finally see

those who had gained the victory

over the beast and his image, and over

his mark? Rev. 15:2-4.

13.

What will be the blessed priv-

ilege of those who have served God

faithfully and have received His name

in their foreheads? Rev. 22:3-5.

There can be no true part-

nership with God unless He

has first place in your life.

[

22]

Lesson 7, for November 16, 1963

The Sabbath—Vital Issue Through the Ages

MEMORY VERSE:

"And He said unto them, The Sabbath was made for man, and

not man for the Sabbath." Mark 2:27.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," chapter 26; "The Desire of Ages," chapter

29; "Patriarchs and Prophets," chapter 29; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To emphasize the sanctity of the Sabbath and show its place and

importance in the Christian's experience.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 12, 13; read

further from study helps.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading study

helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;

learn memory verse.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.

❑

Monday: Questions 5-9.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 10, 11; begin

reading study helps.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Sabbath Instituted

At close

of creation week. Gen.

2:1-3.

Embodied in the Decalogue. Ex.

20:1-17.

To be a perpetual covenant. Ex.

31:16, 17.

To stand forever. Matt. 5:17-19.

II. The Sabbath Identified

The seventh day, not simply "one

in seven." Ex. 20:10, first part.

The Sabbath, the day following

Friday. Mark 15:42.

7. The Sabbath, the day preceding

Sunday. Mark 16:1, 2.

III. The Significance of the Sabbath

The Sabbath is the Lord's day. Ex.

20:10; Isa. 58:13; Mark 2:28.

The Sabbath should be hallowed.

Ezek. 20:20.

10.

New Testament Christians honored

the Sabbath. Luke 23:56.

11.

The Sabbath makes provision for

physical rest. Ex. 20:10, last part.

12.

Sabbath rest compared to soul rest.

Heb. 4:1, 4-6.

13.

Conflict over the Sabbath sym-

bolized. Rev. 13:15-17.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"The commandment of God that has

been almost universally made void, is the

testing truth for this time. . . . The time

is coming when all those who worship God

will be distinguished by this sign. They

will be known as the servants of God,

by this mark of their allegiance to Heaven."

—Evangelism,

page 212.

The Sabbath Instituted

1. After the heavens and the earth

were finished, what important acts

did God perform? Genesis 2:1-3.

NOTE.—"When the morning stars sang

together, and all the sons of God shouted

231

for joy, the Sabbath was given to the

world, that man might ever remember that

in six days God created the world. He

rested upon the seventh day, blessing it

as the day of His rest, and gave it to the

beings He had created, that they might

remember Him as the true and living God."

—Testimonies,

vol. 8, p. 197.

In what law was the Sabbath

embodied? Exodus 20:1-17.

NoTE.—"The Sabbath was embodied in

the law given from Sinai; but it was not

then first made known as a day of rest.

The people of Israel had a knowledge of

it before they came to Sinai. On the way

thither the Sabbath was kept. When some

profaned it, the Lord reproved them, say-

ing, 'How long refuse ye to keep My com-

mandments and My laws?' Ex. 16:28."

—The Desire of Ages,

page 283.

In His instruction to the Israel-

ites, how did God stress the impor-

tance and permanence of the Sabbath?

Exodus 31:16, 17.

NOTE.—"As the Sabbath was the sign

that distinguished Israel when they came

out of Egypt to enter the earthly Canaan,

so it is the sign that now distinguishes

God's people as they come out from the

world to enter the heavenly rest. The Sab-

bath is a sign of the relationship existing

between God and His people, a sign that

they honor His law. It distinguishes be-

tween His loyal subjects and transgres-

sors."—Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 349, 350.

How long did Jesus say the law

was to remain in force? Matthew 5:

17-19.

NOTE.—"The Sabbath was not for Israel

merely, but for the world. It had been

made known to man in Eden, and, like

the other precepts of the Decalogue, it

is of imperishable obligation. Of that law

of which the fourth commandment forms

a part, Christ declares, 'Till heaven and

[ 24

earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in

no wise pass from the law.' So long as

the heavens and the earth endure, the Sab-

bath will continue as a sign of the Crea-

tor's power. And when Eden shall bloom

on earth again, God's holy rest day will

be honored by all beneath the sun."—

The Desire of Ages,

page 283.

The Sabbath Identified

What statement in the Ten Com-

mandments indicates that the Sabbath

is a specific day, and not merely one

day in seven? Ex. 20:10, first part.

NOTE.—"By thus setting apart the Sab-

bath, God gave the world a memorial.

He did not set apart one day and any

day in seven, but one particular day, the

seventh day. And by observing the Sab-

bath, we show that we recognize God as

the living God, the Creator of heaven and

earth."—Testimonies to Ministers,

page

136.

With relation to the preparation

day (Friday), what position does the

Sabbath hold in the weekly cycle?

Mark 15:42.

In what language does the same

writer indicate that the resurrection

day (Sunday) immediately follows the

New Testament Sabbath? Mark 16:

1, 2.

The Significance of the Sabbath

In what way has Scripture identi-

fied the Sabbath as the Lord's day?

Ex. 20:10; Isa. 58:13; Mark 2:28.

NOTE.—"The great Jehovah . . . in-

stituted the Sabbath day and made it holy.

God blessed and sanctified the seventh

day, because He rested upon it from all

His wondrous work of creation. The Sab-

bath was made for man, and God would

have him put by his labor on that day,

as He Himself rested after His six days'

work of

creation."—Testimonies,

vol. 4,

p. 247.

What should be the attitude of

God's children toward that holy day?

Ezek. 20:20.

NOTE.—"To all who receive the Sabbath

as a sign of Christ's creative and redeem-

ing power, it will be a delight. Seeing

Christ in it, they delight themselves in

Him. The Sabbath points them to the

works of creation as an evidence of His

mighty power in redemption."—The

De-

sire of Ages,

page 289.

10.

What evidence is there that

New Testament Christians recognized

this obligation? Luke 23:56.

11.

In addition to showing our re-

spect for God, what further benefit

do we receive from Sabbath observ-

ance? Ex. 20:10, last part.

NoTE.—"The Sabbath is not intended

to be a period of useless inactivity. The

law forbids secular labor on the rest day

of the Lord; the toil that gains a livelihood

must cease; no labor for worldly pleasure

or profit is lawful upon that day; but

as God ceased His labor of creating, and

rested upon the Sabbath and blessed it,

so man is to leave the occupations of his

daily life, and devote those sacred hours

to healthful rest, to worship, and to holy

deeds."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 207.

12.

To what does Paul compare

Sabbath rest? Heb. 4:1, 4-6.

13.

In what symbolic language

does the seer of Patmos forecast the

persecution of those who refuse to

worship the beast? Rev. 13:15-17.

NOTE.—"Fearful is the issue to which

the world is to be brought. The powers

of earth, uniting to war against the com-

mandments of God, will decree that 'all,

both small and great, rich and poor, free

and bond' (Revelation 13:16), shall con-

form to the customs of the church by the

observance of the false sabbath. All who

refuse compliance will be visited with civil

penalties, and it will finally be declared

that they are deserving of death. On the

other hand, the law of God enjoining the

Creator's rest day demands obedience and

threatens wrath against all who transgress

its precepts.

"With the issue thus clearly brought be-

fore him, whoever shall trample upon God's

law to obey a human enactment receives

the mark of the beast; he accepts the sign

of allegiance to the power which he chooses

to obey instead of God."—The

Great Con-

troversy,

page 604.

The senior "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly" is published in the

following foreign languages: Czech, German, Hungarian, Italian,

Polish, Russian, Slovakian, Spanish, Swedish, Ukrainian, and Yugo-

slay. Write to the Pacific Press Publishing Association, Mountain

View, California, for any of these quarterlies for the strangers

within your gates.

[ 25]

Lesson 8, for November 23, 1963

Faithfulness Under Persecution

MEMORY VERSE:

"Therefore they that were scattered abroad went everywhere

preaching the word." Acts

8:4.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," chapter

38;

"The Acts of the Apostles,"

chapter 8; "Messages to Young People," pages 199-207; "Christ's Object

Lessons," pages 353-365; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To review the history of religious persecution

as an

aid to Christian

growth and church revival and evangelism.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;

Check Here

Wednesday: Begin reading study

learn memory verse.

❑

helps.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.

❑

Thursday: Read further from study

Monday: Questions 5-8.

❑

helps.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 9-12.

❑

Friday: Finish reading study helps;

review entire lesson.



❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Persecution a Blessing

Friction foretold between Christian

workers and the world. Matt.

10:22.

The Christian to be wise but gentle.

Matt. 10:16.

Trials for Christ's sake to be ac-

cepted without complaint. 1 Peter

4:12, 13.

Some suffering not for Christ's

sake. 1 Peter 4:15.

II. Revival

5. Persecution spread the gospel in

apostolic times. Acts 8:4; 11:19-21.

God's people to

bear witness every-

where. Mark 16:15.

Fruit bearing an evidence of dis-

cipleship. John 15:5.

The indifferent to suffer denial by

Christ. Matt. 25:41-43.

III. The Ingathering of Israel

The Lord to recover His people the

second time. Isa. 11:11.

10.

Challenge to Israel comes to God's

people today. Isa. 6:8.

11.

Strength promised to those who

serve God. Isa. 41:10; Ps. 126:6.

12.

Even the haughty will finally exalt

Him. Isa. 2:10, 11.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"The Spirit is poured out

upon all who

will yield to its promptings, and, casting

off all man's machinery, his binding rules

and cautious methods, they will declare

the truth with the might of the Spirit's

power. Multitudes will receive the faith

and join the armies of the

Lord."—Evan-

gelism,

page 700.

[ 26 ]

Persecution a Blessing

What will be the attitude of the

world toward the gospel work?

Matt. 10:22.

NOTE.—"The world is no more in har-

mony with the principles of Christ today

than it was in the days of the apostles.

. . . The same spirit which in the Dark

Ages consigned men and women to prison,

to exile, and to death, . . . is still at

work with malignant energy in unregenerate

hearts."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

page 85.

What counsel should the Chris-

tian follow under perilous circum-

stances? Matt. 10:16.

What attitude should the Chris-

tian assume toward trial for Christ's

sake? 1 Peter 4:12, 13.

NoTE.—"If you do not feel that it is an

honor to be a partaker of the sufferings

of Christ; if you feel no burden of soul

for those who are ready to perish; if you

are unwilling to sacrifice that you may

save means for the work that is to be

done, there will be no room for you in the

kingdom of God. We need to be par-

takers with Christ of His sufferings and

self-denial at every step. We need to have

the Spirit of God resting upon us, leading

us to constant self-sacrifice."—Testimonies,

vol. 9, pp. 103, 104.

For what kind of offenses should

the Christian never have to suffer?

1 Peter 4:15.

NOTE.—"It is a privilege to suffer for

the name of Christ, and thereby bring

honor to His name. But if a Christian

commits some evil deed he gives the

heathen an opportunity to ridicule the

church and blaspheme the name of Christ."

—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on 1 Peter

4:15.

Revival

When persecution struck the

early church, what positive effect did

it have? Acts 8:4; 11:19-21.

NoTE.—"To scatter His representatives

abroad, where they could work for others,

God permitted persecution to come upon

them. Driven from Jerusalem, the be-

lievers 'went everywhere preaching the

word.'

"—The Acts of the Apostles,

page

105.

How extensive is to be the field

of missionary laborers? Mark 16:15.

NoTE.—"With the whole world before

them in need of the gospel, professed Chris-

tians congregate where they themselves

can enjoy gospel privileges. They do not

feel the necessity of occupying new terri-

tory, carrying the message of salvation in-

to regions beyond. They refuse to fulfill

Christ's commission, 'Go ye into all the

world, and preach the gospel to every

creature.'

"—Christ's Object Lessons,

page

303.

What is an evidence of disciple-

ship? John 15:5.

NOTE.—"There is a wide difference be-

tween a pretended union and a real con-

nection with Christ by faith. A profes-

sion of the truth places men in the church,

but this does not prove that they have a

vital connection with the living Vine. A

rule is given by which the true disciple

may be distinguished from those who claim

to follow on

but have not faith in

Him. The one class are fruit bearing, the

other, fruitless. The one are often sub-

jected to the pruning knife of God that

they may bring forth more fruit; the other,

as withered branches, are erelong to be

severed from the living

Vine."—Testi-

monies, vol.

5, pp. 228, 229.

What judgment is pronounced

upon those who are indifferent to the

needs of others? Matt. 25:41-43.

[ 27 ]

NoTE.—"Those on the left hand of

Christ, those who had neglected Him in

the person of the poor and the suffering,

were unconscious of their guilt. Satan had

blinded them ; they had not perceived

what they owed to their brethren. They

had been self-absorbed, and cared not for

others' needs. . . . Those who them-

selves have not endured the pressure of

want too often treat the poor in a con-

temptuous way, and make them feel that

they are looked upon as paupers.

"But Christ beholds it all. . . . All

the days of your life I was near you in

the person of these afflicted ones, but you

did not seek Me. You would not enter

into fellowship with Me. I know you

not."—The Desire of Ages,

pages 639, 640.

The Ingathering of Israel

What promise of ingathering

formerly made to literal Israel can be

an inspiration to God's people today?

Isa. 11:11.

NoTE.—"I have been deeply impressed

by scenes that have recently passed be-

fore me in the night season. There seemed

to be a great movement—a work of re-

vival—going forward in many places. Our

people were moving into line, responding

to God's call. My brethren, the Lord is

speaking to us. Shall we not heed His

voice?"—Testimonies to Ministers,

page

515.

10.

What pointed challenge that

came to Isaiah comes to us individu-

ally today? Isa. 6:8.

NotE.—"To everyone who becomes a

partaker of His grace the Lord appoints

a work for others. Individually we are

to stand in our lot and place, saying,

`Here am I; send me.' Isaiah 6:8. Upon

the minister of the word, the missionary

nurse, the Christian physician, the indi-

vidual Christian, whether he be merchant

or farmer, professional man or mechanic

—the responsibility rests upon all. It is

our work to reveal to men the gospel of

their salvation. Every enterprise in which

we engage should be a means to this end."

—The Ministry of Healing,

page 148.

11.

What assurance is given all who

go forth in the name of the Lord?

Isa. 41:10; Ps. 126:6.

Nom.—"Every worker who follows the

example of Christ will be prepared to re-

ceive and use the power that God has

promised to His church for the ripening

of earth's harvest. Morning by morning,

as the heralds of the gospel kneel before

the Lord and renew their vows of con-

secration to Him, He will grant them the

presence of His Spirit, with its reviving,

sanctifying power. As they go forth to

the day's duties, they have the assurance

that the unseen agency of the Holy Spirit

enables them to be 'laborers together with

God.'

"—The Acts of the Apostles,

page .56.

12.

What will be the experience

of persecutors in the last great day?

Isa. 2:10, 11.

Lesson 9, for November 30, 1963

The Close of Probation

MEMORY VERSE:

"The harvest is past,

the summer is ended, and we are not

saved." Jer. 8:20.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," chapter 3; "Steps to Christ," chapter,

"Repentance;" "The Great Controversy," first 2 pages of chapter 39; "S.D.A.

Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To clarify events preceding the withdrawal of God's mercy from

the earth, and to encourage preparation for it.

[ 28 ]

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;

learn memory verse.

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Sunday: Questions 1-4.

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Monday: Questions 5-9.

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Tuesday: Questions 10, 11; begin

reading study helps.

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Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read

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Thursday: Finish reading study

helps.

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Friday: Review entire lesson.

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Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Certainty of Death

All men under the sentence of

death. Heb. 9:27.

Death the natural consequence of

sin. Rom. 5:12.

After death, no opportunity to

know God. Ps. 6:4, 5.

Opportunity to redeem life ceases

at death. Eccl. 9:10.

II. Day of Salvation

Every man has a measure of faith.

Rom. 12:3, 4.

One source for all enlightenment.

John 1:9.

Paul's objective, a clear conscience.

Acts 24:16.

Repeated transgression deadens the

conscience. 1 Tim. 4:2.

Continued disobedience may grieve

the Holy Spirit. Eph. 4:30.

III. The Door of Mercy Shut

10.

The gospel commission. Matt. 28:

19; Rev. 14:6-12.

11.

Hosea urges need to seek the Lord.

Hosea 10:12.

12.

The faithful will be delivered. Dan.

12:1.

13.

The proclamation of probation's

close. Rev. 22:11, 12.

14.

All must prepare to meet God.

Amos 4:12.

Introduction

THE LESSON

2. How did death enter the world?

Rom. 5:12.

"We must

no longer remain upon the en-

chanted ground. We are fast approaching

the close of

our

probation. Let every soul

inquire, How do I stand before God? We

know not how soon our names may be

taken into the lips of Christ, and our cases

finally decided. What, oh, what will

these decisions be! Shall we be counted

with the righteous, or shall we be num-

bered with the

wicked?"-Selected Mes-

sages,

pp. 125, 126.

The Certainty of Death

1. Since the fall of Adam, what un-

welcome appointment awaits every

member of the human race? Heb.

9:27.

NoTE.-"Immortality, promised to man

on condition of obedience,

had been for-

feited

by transgression. Adam could not

transmit to his posterity that which he did

not possess; and there could have been no

hope for the fallen race had not God, by

the sacrifice of His Son, brought immor-

tality within their reach."-The

Great Con-

troversy,

page 533.

3. After death, what opportunity

exists for such things as repentance,

confession, conversion, and restitu-

tion? Ps. 6:4, 5.

[

291

NOTE.—"Upon the fundamental error of

natural immortality rests the doctrine of

consciousness in death—a doctrine, like

eternal torment, opposed to the teachings

of the Scriptures, to the dictates of reason,

and to our feelings of humanity. . .

"What say the Scriptures concerning

these things? David declares that man is

not conscious in death. 'His breath goeth

forth, he returneth to his earth; in that

very day his thoughts perish.'

"—The Great

Controversy,

page 545.

In view of the prospect of death

to every man, what pertinent advice

is given? Eccl. 9:10.

NoTE.—"Do not pass by the little things,

and look for a large work. You might do

successfully the small work, but fail utterly

in attempting a large work and fall into

discouragement. Take hold wherever you

see that there is work to be done. Whether

you are rich or poor, great or humble, God

calls you into active service for Him. It

will be by doing with your might what

your hands find to do that you will de-

velop talent and aptitude for the work.

And it is by neglecting your daily oppor-

tunities that you become fruitless and

withered. This is why there are so many

fruitless trees in the garden of the Lord."

—Testimonies,

vol. 9, p. 129.

The Day of Salvation

With what Christian virtue has

God endowed every man, woman, and

child? Rom. 12:3, 4.

NOTE.—"Faith that enables us to receive

God's gifts is itself a gift, of which some

measure is imparted to every human be-

ing. It grows as exercised in appropriating

the word of God. In order to strengthen

faith, we must often bring it in contact

with the

word."—Education,

pages 253,

254.

"Faith is the gift of God, but the power

to exercise it is ours. Faith is the hand by

which the soul takes hold upon the divine

offers of grace and

mercy."—Patriarchs and

Prophets,

page 431.

By whom only are all men en-

lightened? John 1:9.

NOTE.—"We can trace the line of the

world's teachers as far back as human

records extend; but the Light was before

them. As the moon and the stars of our

solar system shine by the reflected light

of the sun, so, as far as their teaching is

true, do the world's great thinkers reflect

the rays of the Sun of Righteousness. Every

gleam of thought, every flash of the in-

tellect, is from the Light of the world."

—Education,

pages 13, 14.

What was the apostle Paul's

principal aim in life? Acts 24:16.

NOTE.—"This daily review of our acts,

to see whether conscience approves or con-

demns, is necessary for all who wish to

arrive at the perfection of Christian char-

acter. Many acts which pass for good

works, even deeds of benevolence, will,

when closely investigated, be found to be

prompted by wrong motives. . . . Every

act of our lives, whether excellent and

praiseworthy or deserving of censure, is

judged by the Searcher of hearts according

to the motives which prompted

it."—Tes-

tinzonies, vol.

2, p. 512.

How does repeated transgression

affect the conscience? 1 Tim. 4:2.

NoTE.—"Many . . . do not exemplify

the truth in their lives. They have special

exercises upon sanctification, yet cast the

word of God behind them. They pray

sanctification, sing sanctification, and shout

sanctification. Men with corrupt hearts

put on the air of innocence, and profess

to be consecrated; but this is no evidence

that they are right. Their deeds testify of

them. Their consciences are seared, but

the day of God's visitation is coming, and

every man's work shall be manifest, of

what sort it is. And every man shall re-

ceive according to his

deeds."—Testimonies,

vol.

1, p. 338.

[30]

"He supplies men with re-

sources, that by their gifts

and offerings they may keep

His work advancing."

—Counsels on Stewardship,

page 36.

What fatal danger lies in con-

tinued disregard of the voice of con-

science? Eph. 4:30. Compare Gen.

6:3.

NorE.—"Those who are quieting a guilty

conscience with the thought that they can

change a course of evil when they choose,

that they can trifle with the invitations of

mercy, and yet be again and again im-

pressed, take this course at their peril.

They think that after casting all their in-

fluence on the side of the great rebel, in

a moment of utmost extremity, when dan-

ger compasses them about, they will change

leaders. But this is not so easily done.

The experience, the education, the disci-

pline of a life of sinful indulgence, has so

thoroughly molded the character that they

cannot then receive the image of Jesus.

Had no light shone upon their pathway,

the case would have been different. Mercy

might interpose, and give them an oppor-

tunity to accept her overtures; but after

light has been long rejected and despised,

it will be finally

withdrawn."—Patriarchs

and Prophets,

page 269.

The Door of Mercy Shut

10.

Before the coming of the Lord

what message is the church commis-

sioned to give? Matt. 28:19; Rev.

14:6-12.

NOTE.—"Service to God includes per-

sonal ministry. By personal effort we are

to cooperate with Him for the saving of

the world. Christ's commission, `Go ye into

all the world, and preach the gospel to

every creature,' is spoken to every one of

His followers. (Mark 16:15.) All who are

ordained unto the life of Christ are or-

dained to work for the salvation of their

fellowmen. Their hearts will throb in uni-

son with the heart of Christ. The same

longing for souls that He has felt will be

manifest in them. Not all can fill the same

place in the work, but there is a place

and a work for

all."—Christ's Object Les-

sons,

pages 300, 301.

11.

What earnest appeal did Hosea

make to Israel? Hosea 10:12.

NorE.—"But near the close of earth's

harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace

is promised to prepare the church for the

coming of the Son of man. This outpour-

ing of the Spirit is likened to the falling

of the latter rain; and it is for this added

power that Christians are to send their

petitions to the Lord of the harvest 'in

the time of the latter rain.'

"—The Acts of

the Apostles,

page 55.

12.

What events follow the standing

up of Michael? Dan. 12:1.

NOTE.—"When the work of investiga-

tion shall be ended, when the cases of

those who in all ages have professed to

be followers of Christ have been exam-

ined and decided, then, and not till then,

probation will close, and the door of mercy

will be shut. Thus in the one short sen-

tence, 'They that were ready went in with

Him to the marriage: and the door was

shut,' we are carried down through the

Saviour's final ministration, to the time

when the great work for man's salvation

shall be completed."—The

Great Contro-

versy,

page 428.

13.

What solemn announcement is

made shortly before the appearance

of the Son of man? Rev. 22:11, 12.

NOTE.—"When the third angel's message

closes, mercy no longer pleads for the

guilty inhabitants of the earth. . . . Then

[

31]

Jesus ceases His intercession in the sanctu-

ary above. He lifts His hands, and with

a loud voice says, 'It is done;' and all

the angelic host lay off their crowns as He

makes the solemn announcement: 'He that

is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he

which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and

he that is righteous, let him be righteous

still: and he that is holy, let him be holy

still.' Revelation 22:11. Every case has

been decided for life or death. Christ has

made the atonement for His people and

blotted out their sins."—The

Great Con-

troversy,

pages 613, 614.

"These words are especially applicable to

the time when each person's future is ir-

revocably settled. Such a decree comes

at the close of the investigative judgment.

. . . Men are to be permitted to live

the life of their own choosing, so that their

true character may become apparent. Each

person of each age will be made manifest

in respect to the class in which he belongs,

at the second coming of Christ."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Rev.

22:11.

14. In the light of impending judg-

ments, what did Amos urge his peo-

ple to do? Amos 4:12. Compare Isa.

55:6, 7.

NOTE.

-"It

is the first and highest duty

of every rational being to learn from the

Scriptures what is truth, and then to walk

in the light and encourage others to follow

his example. We should day by day study

the Bible diligently, weighing every thought

and comparing scripture with scripture.

With divine help we are to form our

opinions for ourselves as we are to answer

for ourselves before God."—The

Great

Controversy,

page 598.

Lesson 10, for December 7, 1963

The Time of Trouble

MEMORY VERSE:

"He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him:

will be with

him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him." Ps. 91:15.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 201, 202; "Testimonies," vol. 5,

pp. 449-476; "The Great Controversy," chapter

39; "S.D.A.

Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To point out the purpose of trials, discovering in them God's mercy

in dealing with His children.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

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Here

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Sabbath afternoon: General survey;



Wednesday: Questions 11,

12;

read

learn memory verse.

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Sunday: Questions 1-5.

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Thursday: Finish reading study

Monday: Questions 6, 7; begin

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reading study helps.

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Friday: Review entire lesson.

Tuesday: Questions 8-10; read

further from study helps.

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❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Object of Trial

1. Spiritual results of tribulation.

Rom. 5:3, 4.

[32 ]

The Christian's reaction to perse-

cution. Matt. 5:10-12.

No temptation too hard to endure.

1 Cor. 10:13.

A share in Christ's sufferings, the

Christian's privilege. James 1:2-4,

12; 1 Peter 4:12, 13.

A crown of righteousness awaits

the faithful. 2 Tim. 4:5-8.

II. Persecution in the Early Church

Persecution led first-century church

to greater evangelism. Acts 8:1.

Power attended first disciples' min-

istry. Acts 8:4-8.

III. The Time of Trouble

A period of severest test. Dan. 12:

1, second part.

The plagues afflict the wicked. Rev.

16:2-4, 8, 10-12, 17.

10.

Tribulation purifies the saints. Dan.

12:1, last part.

11.

The righteous will be spared. Ps.

91 : 10.

12.

Spiritual growth to be earnestly

sought. 2 Peter 3:11-14.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"Fearful tests and trials await the peo-

ple of God. The spirit of war is stirring

the nations from one end of the earth

to the other. But in the midst of the

time of trouble . . . God's chosen people

will stand unmoved. Satan and his angels

cannot destroy them, for angels that excel

in strength will protect

them."—Selected

Messages,

b. 2, p. 55.

The Object of Trial

1. What spiritual

results come

from tribulation? Rom. 5:3, 4.

NOTE.—"Life is disciplinary. While in

the world, the Christian will meet with

adverse influences. There will be provoca-

tions to test the temper; and it is by meet-

ing these in a right spirit that the Chris-

tian graces are developed. . . .

"There is a high standard to which we

are to attain if we would be children of

God, noble, pure, holy, and undefiled; and

a pruning process is necessary if we would

reach this standard. How would this prun-

ing be accomplished if there were no dif-

ficulties to meet, no obstacles to surmount,

nothing to call out patience and endur-

ance? These trials are not the smallest

blessings in our experience. They are de-

signed to nerve us to determination to

succeed. We are to use them as God's

means to gain decided victories over self

instead of allowing them to hinder, op-

press, and destroy

us."—Testimonies, vol.

5, pp. 344, 345.

What is to be the Christian's

reaction to persecution for righteous-

ness' sake? Matt. 5:10-12.

NoTE.—"Christ's followers are accused

as troublers of the people. But it is fellow-

ship with God that brings them the world's

enmity. They are bearing the reproach of

Christ. They are treading the path that

has been trodden by the noblest of the

earth. Not with sorrow, but with re-

joicing, should they meet persecution. Each

fiery trial is God's agent for their refining.

. . . Each conflict has its place in the

great battle for righteousness, and each

will add to the joy of their final triumph."

—The Desire of Ages,

page 306.

In what language is the Chris-

tian reassured that he need not en-

counter

overwhelming

temptation?

1 Cor. 10:13.

NOTE.-"If

we venture on Satan's ground

we have no assurance of protection from

his power. So far as in us lies, we should

close every avenue by which the tempter

may find access to us. The prayer, 'Bring

us not into temptation,' is itself a promise.

If we commit ourselves to God we have

the assurance, He 'will not suffer you to

be tempted above that ye are able; but

will with the temptation also make

way

to escape, that ye may be able to bear

it.' 1 Corinthians 10:13. . . . Live in

contact with the living Christ, and He

will hold you firmly by a hand that will

[33

never let go. Know and believe the love

that God has to us, and you are secure;

that love is a fortress impregnable to all

the delusions and assaults of Satan."—

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,

pages 118, 119.

What reason is given for the

Christian's acceptance of trial as a

blessing? James 1:2-4, 12; 1 Peter 4:

12, 13.

NOTE.—"Many who sincerely consecrate

their lives to God's service are surprised

and disappointed to find themselves, as

never before, confronted by obstacles and

beset by trials and perplexities. They pray

for Christlikeness of character, for a fit-

ness for the Lord's work, and they are

placed in circumstances that seem to call

forth all the evil of their nature. Faults

are revealed of which they did not even

suspect the existence. . . .

"The fact that we are called upon to

endure trial shows that the Lord Jesus

sees in us something precious which He

desires to develop."—The

Ministry of Heal-

ing,

pages 470, 471.

" 'When men shall revile you, and per-

secute you,' said Jesus, 'rejoice, and be ex-

ceeding glad.' And He pointed His hearers

to the prophets who had spoken in the

name of the Lord, as 'an example of suf-

fering affliction, and of patience.' James

5:10. Abel, the very first Christian of

Adam's children, died a martyr. Enoch

walked with God, and the world knew

him not. Noah was mocked as a fanatic

and an alarmist. 'Others had trial of cruel

mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of

bonds and imprisonment.' Others were

tortured, not accepting deliverance; that

they might obtain a better resurrection.'

Hebrews 11:36,

35."—Thoughts From the

Mount of Blessing,

page 33.

To what reward did the apostle

look forward as he came to the close

of his life? 2 Tim. 4:5-8.

NOTE.—"The apostle was looking into

the great beyond, not with uncertainty

or dread, but with joyous hope and long-

ing expectation. As he stands at the

place of martyrdom he sees not the sword

of the executioner or the earth so soon to

receive his blood; but he looks up through

the calm blue heaven of that summer day

to the throne of the Eternal. . . .

"Ransomed by the sacrifice of Christ,

washed from sin in His blood, and clothed

in His righteousness, Paul has the witness

in himself that his soul is precious in the

sight of his Redeemer. . . . Like a trum-

pet peal his voice has rung out through

all the ages since, nerving with his own

courage thousands of witnesses for Christ

and awakening in thousands of sorrow-

stricken hearts the echo of his own tri-

umphant joy: 'I am now ready to be of-

fered, and the time of my departure is at

hand.'

"—The Acts of the Apostles,

pages

511-513.

Persecution in the Early Church

What experience came to the

apostolic church? With what result?

Acts 8:1.

To what urgent task did the

church then commit itself, and with

what results? Acts 8:4-8.

NorE.—"The persecution that came upon

the church in Jerusalem resulted in giving

a great impetus to the work of the gospel.

Success had attended the ministry of the

word in that place, and there was danger

that the disciples would linger there too

long, unmindful of the Saviour's commis-

sion to go to all the world. . . .

"When they were scattered by persecu-

tion they went forth filled with missionary

zeal. They realized the responsibility of

their mission. They knew that they held in

their hands the bread of life for a famish-

ing world; and they were constrained by

the love of Christ to break this bread to

all who were in need. The Lord wrought

through them. Wherever they went, the

sick were healed and the poor had the

gospel preached unto them."—The

Acts of

the Apostles,

pages 105, 106.

[34

]

The Time of Trouble

Near the end of time, what ter-

rible experience awaits the church

and the world? Dan. 12:1, second

part.

NOTE.—"When He leaves the sanctuary,

darkness covers the inhabitants of the

earth. In that fearful time the righteous

must live in the sight of a holy God with-

out an intercessor. The restraint which

has been upon the wicked is removed, and

Satan has entire control of the finally

impenitent. God's long-suffering has ended.

The world has rejected His mercy, de-

spised His love, and trampled upon His

law. The wicked have passed the boundary

of their probation; the Spirit of God, per-

sistently resisted, has been at last with-

drawn. Unsheltered by divine grace, they

have no protection from the wicked one.

Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of

the earth into one great, final trouble. As

the angels of God cease to hold in check

the fierce winds of human passion, all the

elements of strife will be let loose. The

whole world will be involved in ruin more

terrible than that which came upon Jeru-

salem of

old."—The Great Controversy,

page 614.

Enumerate the afflictions of the

wicked at that time. Rev. 16:2-4, 8,

10-12, 17.

NOTE.—"These plagues are not universal,

or the inhabitants of the earth would be

wholly cut off. Yet they will be the

most awful scourges that have ever been

known to mortals. All the judgments upon

men, prior to the close of probation, have

been mingled with mercy. The pleading

blood of Christ has shielded the sinner

from receiving the full measure of his

guilt; but in the final judgment, wrath is

poured out unmixed with mercy. In that

day, multitudes will desire the shelter of

God's mercy which they have so long de-

spised."—The

Great Controversy,

pages

628, 629.

10.

What will be the experience of

the saints during this time? Dan. 12:1,

last part. Compare Rev. 20:15.

NOTE.—"Delivered.

What a consolation

that in this great controversy the outcome

is not in doubt! Compare chs. 7:18, 22,

27; 10:14."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Dan. 12:1.

11.

What further assurance is given

the righteous during these awful

times? Ps. 91:10.

NOTE.—"The precious Saviour will send

help just when we need it. The way to

heaven is consecrated by His footprints.

Every thorn that wounds our feet has

wounded His. Every cross that we are

called to bear He has borne before us. The

Lord permits conflicts, to prepare the soul

for peace. The time of trouble is a fear-

ful ordeal for God's people; but it is the

time for every true believer to look up,

and by faith he may see the bow of

promise encircling

him."—The Great Con-

troversy,

page 633.

12.

How earnestly should the Chris-

tian pursue his spiritual develop-

ment? 2 Peter 3:11-14.

NOTE.—"Every soul is elected who will

work out his own salvation with fear and

trembling. He is elected who will put on

the armor, and fight the good fight of

faith. He is elected who will watch

unto

prayer, who will search the Scriptures, and

flee from temptation. He is elected who

will have faith continually, and who will

be obedient to every word that proceedeth

out of the mouth of God. The

provisions

of redemption are free to all; the

results

of redemption will be enjoyed by those

who have complied with the conditions."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 208.

"There is no place in the school of Christ

where we graduate. We are to work on

the plan of addition, and the Lord will

work on the plan of multiplication."—Se-

lected

Messages,

b. 1, p. 379.

[ 35

Lesson

11,

for

December 14, 1963

Our Lord's Return

MEMORY VERSE:

"And now, little children, abide in Him; that, when He shall

appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before Him at His

coming." 1 John 2:28.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," chapter 40; "Early Writings," pages 111-

114, 118-121;

"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To remind us of the purpose and nearness of Christ's soon return

to this earth, and to urge preparation to meet Him.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

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Sabbath afternoon: General survey;



Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read

learn memory verse.

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

further from study helps.

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Sunday: Questions 1-4.

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

Thursday: Finish reading study

Monday: Questions 5-9.

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❑



helps.

Tuesday: Questions 10, 11; begin



Friday: Review entire lesson.

reading study helps.



❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Christ Shall Return

The promise to return. John 14:

1-3.

For those who eagerly await Him.

Heb. 9:28.

The coming King identified as

Christ. Titus 2:13, 14.

Paul describes His coming. 1 Thess.

4:16, 17.

II. The Purpose of His Coming

To restore the lost dominion. Micah

4:6-8.

To bestow eternal life on His chil-

dren. 1 Cor. 15:52, 53; Rom. 6:23.

unite loved ones separated by

death. 1 Thess. 4:13-15.

To bring rewards. Matt. 16:27.

To punish the ungodly. 2 Thess.

1:7, 8.

III. The Nearness of His Coming

10.

The premise to come quickly. Rev.

22:13, 12.

11.

Upheavals in nature as signs. Luke

21:25-27.

12.

Gospel to go to all the world prior

to His coming. Matt. 24:14.

13.

The Lord to appear with startling

suddenness. 1 Thess. 5:3.

14.

Christians are to look for and

hasten the Lord's return. 2 Peter

3:12; Luke 21:34-36.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"The Lord is coming. Lift up your heads

and rejoice. . . . This is the good, the

joyful news which should electrify every

soul, which should be repeated in our

homes, and told to those whom we meet

on the street. What more joyful news can

be communicated

!"-Evangelism,

page 218.

Christ Shall Return

1. Before His ascension, what

promise did Jesus make to His disci-

ples? John 14:1-3.

NOTE.-"Long

have we waited for our

Saviour's return. But nonetheless sure is

the promise. Soon we shall be in our

promised home. There Jesus will lead us

beside the living stream flowing from the

throne of God and will explain to us the

dark providences through which on this

earth He brought us in order to perfect

our characters. There we shall behold with

undimmed vision the beauties of Eden re-

stored. Casting at the feet of the Re-

deemer the crowns that He has placed on

our heads, and touching our golden harps,

we shall fill all heaven with praise to Him

that sitteth on the

throne."—Testimonies,

vol. 8, p. 254.

To whom will Christ bring sal-

vation when He returns? Heb. 9:28.

NorE.—"So Christ, having been offered

once to bear the sins of many, will appear

a second time, not to deal with sin but to

save those who are eagerly waiting for

Him." R.S.V.

"Those who watch for the Lord's coming

are not waiting in idle expectancy. The

expectation of Christ's coming is to make

men fear the Lord, and fear His judg-

ments upon transgression. It is to awaken

them to the great sin of rejecting His offers

of mercy. Those who are watching for the

Lord are purifying their souls by obedience

to the truth. With vigilant watching they

combine earnest working. Because they

know that the Lord is at the door, their

zeal is quickened to cooperate with the

divine intelligences in working for the

salvation of souls."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 634.

How does the apostle identify

the Coming One? Titus 2:13, 14.

NOTE.—"Christ had ascended to heaven

in the form of humanity. The disciples had

beheld the cloud receive Him. The same

Jesus who had walked and talked and

prayed with them; who had broken bread

with them; who had been with them in

their boats on the lake; and who had that

very day toiled with them up the ascent

of Olivet,—the same Jesus had now gone

to share His Father's throne. And the

angels had assured them that the very One

whom they had seen go up into heaven,

would come again even as He had ascended.

He will come 'with clouds; and every eye

shall see

Him."—The Desire of Ages,

page

832.

How does Paul describe Christ's

coming? 1 Thess. 4:16, 17.

NOTE.—"The coming of the Lord has

been in all ages the hope of His true fol-

lowers. The Saviour's parting promise upon

Olivet, that He would come again, lighted

up the future for His disciples, filling their

hearts with joy and hope that sorrow could

not quench nor trials dim. Amid suffering

and persecution, 'the appearing of the great

God and our Saviour Jesus Christ' was the

`blessed hope.' When the Thessalonian

Christians were filled with grief as they

buried their loved ones, who had hoped

to live to witness the coming of the Lord,

Paul, their teacher, pointed them to the

resurrection, to take place at the Saviour's

advent."—The

Great Controversy,

page

302.

The Purpose of His Coming

In what lofty language does the

prophet describe the restoration of

the lost dominion? Micah 4:6-8.

NOTE.—"Satan, by means of his success

in turning man aside from the path of

obedience, became 'the god of this world.'

2 Corinthians 4:4. The dominion that

once was Adam's passed to the usurper.

But the Son of God proposed to come to

this earth to pay the penalty of sin, and

thus not only redeem man, but recover

the dominion forfeited. It is of this restora-

tion that Micah prophesied when he said,

`0 Tower of the flock, the stronghold of

the daughter of Zion, unto Thee shall it

come, even the first dominion.' Micah 4:8.

The apostle Paul has referred to it as 'the

redemption of the purchased possession.'

Ephesians 1:14. And the psalmist had in

mind the same final restoration of man's

original inheritance when he declared, 'The

righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell

therein forever.' Psalm

37:29."—Prophets

and Kings,

page 682.

E 37.1

At His second advent, what is

the first gift Christ bestows upon the

redeemed? 1 Cot. 15:52, 53; Rom.

6:23.

What promise does God give

the faithful regarding their loved

ones who sleep in Jesus? 1 Thess. 4:

13-15.

What is one purpose of the sec-

ond coming, as indicated by Jesus

Himself? Matt. 16:27. Compare Rev.

22:12.

NOTE.—"Christ had just been speaking

of Christians losing their lives . . . for

His sake. If their 'reward' for the sacri-

fice were to be received at death, as pop-

ular theology has it, it is strange that

Christ here specifically declares that this

reward is not given until He Himself shall

return in glory at the close of the age."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Matt. 16:27.

What two classes of people does

the apostle Paul speak of as receiving

punishment when Christ comes? 2

Thess. 1:7, 8.

NOTE.—"In

flaming fire.

This phrase

should probably be attached to v. 7, as

further describing the coming of Christ.

The context and the general teaching of

Scripture seem to support this. At the

great advent day the Lord will be revealed

in His own glory, with the glory of His

Father, and of the holy angels (see Luke

9:26). Such glory appears to mortal eyes

as fire. Thus Moses described the glory

of God (Ex. 3:2), and thus, Ezekiel (Eze.

1:27), Daniel (Dan. 7:9, 10), and John the

revelator (Rev. 1:14, 15).

"Vengeance. . . .

The phrase may be

translated, 'inflicting punishment.'

"Know not God.

Paul conceives those

whom the Lord punishes as belonging to

two classes, those who know not God and

"The religious experience is

to a great degree determined

by the character of the books

you read in your leisure mo-

ments."—T

estimonies,vol.

p. 204.

those who obey not the gospel. . . . The

first are those who have had opportunity

to know God but have spurned the privi-

lege. . . . The second class are those who

know the gospel message but have refused

to obey it. Their reasons for rejecting the

gospel are clearly shown by the Lord Him-

self to be their love of sin (see John 3:17-

20)."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on 2

Thess. 1:8.

The Nearness of His Coming

10.

In the book of Revelation, how

does Christ identify Himself, and what

solemn announcement does He make?

Rev. 22:13, 12.

11.

What evidences in the physical

creation foreshadow Christ's second

coming? Luke 21:25-27.

NOTE.—"The restraining Spirit of God

is even now being withdrawn from the

world. Hurricanes, storms, tempests, fire

and flood, disasters by sea and land, follow

each other in quick succession. Science

seeks to explain all these. The signs thick-

ening around us, telling of the near ap-

proach of the Son of God, are attributed

to any other than the true cause. Men

cannot discern the sentinel angels restrain-

ing the four winds that they shall not blow

until the servants of God are sealed; but

when God shall bid His angels loose the

winds, there will be such a scene of strife

as no pen can

picture."—Testimonies,

vol.

6, p. 408.

[88

12.

What work must be com-

pleted before the Lord's coming?

Matt. 24:14.

NOTE.—"Not upon the ordained minister

only rests the responsibility of going forth

to fulfill this commission. Everyone who

has received Christ is called to work for

the salvation of his fellowmen. . . .

"It is a fatal mistake to suppose that

the work of soulsaving depends alone upon

the ministry. The humble, consecrated be-

liever upon whom the Master of the vine-

yard places a burden for souls is to be

given encouragement by the men upon

whom the Lord has laid larger responsi-

bilities. . . . When the members of the

church of God do their appointed work

in the needy fields at home and abroad,

in fulfillment of the gospel commission,

the whole world will soon be warned and

the Lord Jesus will return to this earth

with power and great glory."—The

Acts

of the Apostles,

pages 110, 111.

13.

With what startling sudden-

ness will the Lord appear? 1 Thess.

5:3.

NoTE.—"The advent of Christ will sur-

prise the false teachers. They are saying,

`Peace and safety.' Like the priests and

teachers before the fall of Jerusalem, they

look for the church to enjoy earthly pros-

perity and glory. The signs of the times

they interpret as foreshadowing this. But

what saith the word of Inspiration? 'Sud-

den destruction cometh upon them.' 1

Thess. 5:3. Upon all who dwell on the

face of the whole earth, upon all who

make this world their home, the day of

God will come as a snare. It comes to them

as a prowling thief."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 635.

14.

It is the duty of each individual

Christian to preserve his own faith in

the nearness of the Lord's return.

How may this be done? 2 Peter 3:12;

Luke 21:34-36.

NOTE.—The Revised Standard Version of

2 Peter 3:12 reads, "Waiting for and

hastening the coming of the day of God."

"As your soul yearns after God, you

will find more and still more of the un-

searchable riches of His grace. As you

contemplate these riches you will come

into possession of them and will reveal

the merits of the Saviour's sacrifice, the

protection of His righteousness, the full-

ness of His wisdom, and His power to

present you before the Father 'without

spot, and blameless.'

"—The Acts of the

Apostles,

page 567.

"By giving the gospel to the world it is

in our power to hasten our Lord's return."

—The Desire of Ages,

page 633.

Lesson 12, for December 21, 1963

God's Harvest

MEMORY VERSE:

"The

enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end

of the world; and the reapers are the angels." Matt. 13:39.

STUDY HELPS:

"Christ's Object Lessons," pages 70-75, 243-251 (chapters, "Tares"

and "The Measure of Forgiveness"); "Testimonies," vol. 3, pp. 113-116; "Early

Writings," pages 104-107

;

"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

To note the existence of tares among the wheat, the Biblical pro-

cedure for dealing with them, and the ultimate purification of the church.

[ 39 ]

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD



Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;



Wednesday: Questions 11, 12; read

learn memory verse.



❑



further from study helps.

Sunday: Questions 1-5.



❑



Thursday: Finish reading study

Monday: Questions 6-8.



❑



helps.

Tuesday: Questions 9, 10; begin



Friday: Review entire lesson.

reading study helps.



❑

Introduction

"The church may be called upon to dis-

miss from their fellowship those who will

not be corrected. It is a painful duty that

has to be done. Sad indeed is such a step,

and it should not be taken until every

other means of correcting and saving the

one in error has

failed."—Evangelism,

page

368.

Good Seed and Tares

1. To what does Christ compare

His faithful children? Matt. 13:38,

second part.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Good Seed and Tares

Good seed represents God's chil-

dren. Matt. 13:38, second part.

The tares are servants of the evil

one. Matt. 13:38, last part.

Hypocrisy rebuked. Matt. 23:26, 27.

A hypocrite—a blind guide. Matt.

23:15-17; 15:14.

A right decision urged. Josh. 24:15.

II. Church Discipline

6. Brothers at fault should be dealt

with. Matt. 18:15, 16.

Censure must be administered in

meek spirit. Gal. 6 : 1.

Unrepentant to be disfellowshiped.

Matt. 18:17, 18.

Ill. The Result of the Harvest

A warning against unwise or hasty

action. Matt. 13:28-30.

10.

Fate of the unrepentant. Matt.

13:41, 42.

11.

Reward of the faithful. Matt. 13:

43.

12.

The redeemed shall see His face.

Rev. 22:3, 4.

THE LESSON

NOTE.—"The good seed represents those

who are born of the word of God, the

truth. The tares represent a class who

are the fruit or embodiment of error, of

false principles. . . . Many who think

themselves Christians will at last be found

wanting. Many will be in heaven who

their neighbors supposed would never enter

there. Man judges from appearance, but

God judges the heart. The tares and the

wheat are to grow together until the

harvest; and the harvest is the end of

probationary

time."—Christ's Object Les-

sons,

pages 70-72.

3. With what scathing words did

Christ rebuke hypocrisy in professed

believers? Matt. 23:26, 27.

2. To what are the children of the

wicked compared? Matt. 13:38, last

part.

NOTE.—"Love to God is the very foun-

dation of religion. To engage in His service

[ 40 ]

At the Christmas season

thoughts turn to loved ones

and friends. Give your best

Friend, Jesus, your best gift

for the Thirteenth Sabbath

Offering—December 21.

merely from hope of reward or fear of

punishment, would avail nothing. Open

apostasy would not be more offensive to

God than hypocrisy and mere formal wor-

ship."—Patriarchs

and Prophets,

page 523.

What is the result of a hypo-

crite's influence? Matt. 23:15-17. Com-

pare Matt. 15:14.

What choice was presented by

Joshua to ancient Israel? Josh. 24:15.

NOTE.—"God does not compel men to

give up their unbelief. Before them

are

light and darkness, truth and error. It is

for them to decide which they will accept.

The human mind is endowed with power

to discriminate between right and wrong.

God designs that men shall not decide from

impulse, but from weight of evidence, care-

fully comparing scripture with scripture."

—The Desire of Ages,

page 458.

Church Discipline

What procedure is to be fol-

lowed in dealing with those who err?

Matt. 18:15, 16.

NOTE.—"Our Lord teaches that matters

of difficulty between Christians are to be

settled within the church. They should not

be opened before those who do not fear

God. If a Christian is wronged by his

brother, let him not appeal to unbelievers

in a

court of justice. Let him follow out

the instruction Christ has given. Instead

of trying to avenge himself, let him seek

to save his brother. God will guard the

interests of those who love and fear Him,

and with confidence we may commit our

case to Him who judges righteously."—

Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 248, 249.

In what spirit should those over-

taken in a fault be dealt with? Gal.

6:1.

NOTE.—"Give the erring one no occasion

for discouragement. Suffer not a phar-

isaical hardness to come in and hurt your

brother. Let no bitter sneer rise in mind

or heart. Let no tinge of scorn be mani-

fest in the voice. If you speak a word of

your own, if you take an attitude of in-

difference, or show suspicion or distrust, it

may prove the ruin of a soul. He needs

a brother with the Elder Brother's heart

of sympathy to touch his heart of human-

ity. Let him feel the strong clasp of

sympathizing hand, and hear the whisper,

Let us pray. God will give a rich experi-

ence to you

both."—Christ's Object Les-

sons,

page 250.

If the offending member persists

in his waywardness, what is the clear

duty of the church? Matt. 18:17, 18.

NoTE.—"If he will not heed the voice

of the church, if he refuses all the efforts

made to reclaim him, upon the church

rests the responsibility of separating him

from fellowship. His name should then

be stricken from the books.

"No church officer should advise, no

committee should recommend, nor should

any church vote, that the name of a

wrongdoer shall be removed from the

church books, until the instruction given

by Christ has been faithfully followed.

When this has been done, the church has

cleared herself before

God."—Gospel Work-

ers,

pages 500, 501.

The Result of the Harvest

How did Christ indicate that the

situation of wheat and tares growing

together would be solved? Matt. 13:

28-30.

[ 411

NoTE.—"Christ's servants are grieved as

they see true and false believers mingled

in the church. They long to do something

to cleanse the church. Like the servants

of the householder, they are ready to up-

root the tares. But Christ says to them,

`Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares,

ye root up also the wheat with them.

Let both grow together until the harvest.'"

—Christ's Object Lessons,

page 71.

10.

How will the Master deal with

those who remain in the church, but

outside the circle of His will? Matt.

13:41, 42.

NOTE.—"The Saviour does not point for-

ward to a time when all the tares become

wheat. The wheat and tares grow together

until the harvest, the end of the world.

Then the tares are bound in bundles to

be burned, and the wheat is gathered into

the garner of God. 'Then shall the righ-

teous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom

of their Father.' Then 'the Son of man

shall send forth His angels, and they shall

gather out of His kingdom all things that

offend, and them which do iniquity; and

shall cast them into a furnace of fire;

there shall be wailing and gnashing of

teeth.' "—Christ's Object Lessons,

page 75.

11.

To what glorious privilege will

the righteous at last be welcomed?

Matt. 13:43.

NOTE.—"We are homeward bound. He

who loved us so much as to die for us

hath builded for us a city. The new Jeru-

salem is our place of rest. There will be

no sadness in the City of God. No wail

of sorrow, no dirge of crushed hopes and

buried affections, will evermore be heard.

Soon the garments of heaviness will be

changed for the wedding garment. Soon

we shall witness the coronation of our

King. Those whose lives have been hidden

with Christ, those who on this earth have

fought the good fight of faith, will shine

forth with the Redeemer's glory in the

kingdom of God.

"It will not be long till we shall see Him

in whom our hopes of eternal life are cen-

tered. And in His presence, all the trials

and sufferings of this life will be as nothing-

ness. . . . Look up, look up, and let your

faith continually

increase."—Testimonies,

vol. 9, p. 287.

12.

How does John the revelator

speak of the great privilege of the re-

deemed when the curse has been re-

moved? Rev. 22:3, 4.

NOTE.—"Whatever crosses they have

been called to bear, whatever losses they

have sustained, whatever persecution they

have suffered, even to the loss of their

temporal life, the children of God are

amply recompensed. 'They shall see His

face; and His name shall be in their

foreheads.'

"—Christ's Object Lessons,

page

180.

Lesson 13, for December 28, 1963

The Judgment

MEMORY VERSE:

"Judgment also will

lay to the line, and righteousness to the

plummet." Isa. 28:17.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Great Controversy," chapters 28

and 42; "Patriarchs and

Prophets," chapter 7; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

LESSON AIM:

make clear the nature and purpose of the great final judgment.

[ 42 1

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey;



Tuesday: Questions 9-12.

learn memory verse.



❑

Wednesday: Read further from

Sunday: Questions 1-6.



❑



study helps.



Monday: Questions 7, 8; begin



Thursday: Finish reading study

reading study helps.



❑



helps.



❑

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Coming Judgment

The certainty of the judgment.

Rom. 14:10-12; 2 Cor. 5:10.

Every work to be brought into

judgment. Eccl. 12:14.

The judgment scene described. Dan.

7:9, 10.

The judgment-hour message to

precede second coming. Rev. 14:

6, 7.

Law of God-the standard of judg-

ment. James 2:10-12.

Obedient and faithful ones justi-

fied. Rom. 5:1; Matt. 7:21-27.

II. The Judged and Judgment-Bound

Noah's generation characterized by

careless unconcern. Matt. 24:38, 39.

Urgent message to those lingering

in sin. 2 Cor. 6:2.

III. God's Strange Act

Earth to be purified by fire. Rev.

20:9, 15.

10.

Sin and sinners to be totally de-

stroyed. Mal. 4:1.

11.

Righteousness to reign forever. 2

Peter 3:13; Rev. 21:27.

12.

Diligence and readiness essential to

Christians. 2 Peter 3:14, 17, 18.

THE LESSON

Introduction

The investigative judgment is now in

progress. At the same time, in this crisis

hour, a strange lethargy seems to have

gripped humanity. The human family

rushes in careless unconcern toward the

day of final reckoning. Let us warn, watch,

and be ready.

The Coming Judgment

1. What does the apostle Paul say

about the certainty of the judgment?

Rom. 14:10-12; 2 Cor. 5:10.

NOTE.

All

of us, both weak and strong,

are to stand before the great tribunal. "On

that great day men will not only put in

an appearance at the bar of justice, but

will stand revealed as to what manner of

persons they are."-S.D.A.

Bible Commen-

tary,

on 2 Cor. 5:10.

2. How inclusive will the work of

the judgment be? Eccl. 12:14.

NoTE.-"Every man's work passes in re-

view before God and is registered for faith-

fulness or unfaithfulness. Opposite each

name in the books of heaven is entered

with terrible exactness every wrong word,

every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty,

and every secret sin, with every artful

dissembling. Heaven-sent warnings or re-

proofs neglected, wasted moments, unim-

proved opportunities, the influence exerted

for good or for evil, with its far-reaching

results, all are chronicled by the recording

angel."-The

Great Controversy,

page 482.

[43

]

"There is a world to be

warned. To us has been en-

trusted this

work."—Coun-

sels on Stewardship,

page 43.

"As Christ's ministration was to consist

of two great divisions, each occupying a

period of time and having a distinctive

place in the heavenly sanctuary, so the

typical ministration consisted of two divi-

sions, the daily and the yearly service, and

to each a department of the tabernacle

was

devoted."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 357.

How does the prophet Daniel

describe the judgment scene? Dan.

7:9, 10.

NoTE.—"Thus was presented to the

prophet's vision the great and solemn day

when the characters and the lives of men

should pass in review before the Judge of

all the earth, and to every man should be

rendered 'according to his works.' The

Ancient of Days is God the Father. . . .

It is He, the source of all being, and the

fountain of all law, that is to preside in

the judgment. And holy angels as min-

isters and witnesses, in number 'ten thou-

sand times ten thousand, and thousands of

thousands,' attend this great tribunal."—

The Great Controversy,

page 479.

What proclamation is to precede

the return of Christ to our world?

Rev. 14:6, 7. Compare Mark 16:15.

NOTE.—"In the prophecy this warning

of the judgment, with its connected mes-

sages, is followed by the coming of the

Son of man in the clouds of heaven. The

proclamation of the judgment is an an-

nouncement of Christ's second coming as

at hand. And this proclamation is called

the everlasting gospel. Thus the preaching

of Christ's second coming, the announce-

ment of its nearness, is shown to be an

essential part of the gospel message."—

Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 227, 228.

By what standard are men being

measured in the judgment? James

2:10-12.

What twofold experience is nec-

essary in order to meet divine ap-

proval? Rom. 5:1; Matt. 7:21-27.

The Judged and Judgment-Bound

What strange unconcern char-

acterized the time of Noah? With

what consequence? Matt. 24:38, 39.

NOTE.—"As the time of their probation

was closing, the antediluvians gave them-

selves up to exciting amusements and festiv-

ities. Those who possessed influence and

power were bent on keeping the minds of

the people engrossed with mirth and plea-

sure, lest any should be impressed by the

last solemn warning. . . .

"When great and wise men had proved

to their satisfaction that it was impossible

for the world to be destroyed by water,

when the fears of the people were quieted,

when all regarded Noah's prophecy as a

delusion, and looked upon him as a fanatic

—then it was that God's time had come."—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 103, 104.

"When the professed people of God are

uniting with the world, living as they live,

and joining with them in forbidden plea-

sure; when the luxury of the world becomes

the luxury of the church; when the mar-

riage bells are chiming, and all are looking

forward to many years of worldly pros-

perity—then, suddenly as the lightning

flashes from the heavens, will come the

end of their bright visions and delusive

hopes."—The

Great Controversy,

pages

338, 339.

What urgent message is ad-

dressed to sinners while mercy

lingers? 2 Cor. 6:2.

NoTa.—"Is not this promise broad and

deep and full? Can you ask more? Will

44 ]

you not allow the Lord right here to

erect a standard for you against the

enemy? Satan is ready to steal away the

blessed assurances of God. He desires to

take every glimmer of hope and every

ray of light from the soul; but you must

not permit him to do this. Exercise faith;

fight the good fight of faith; wrestle with

these doubts; become acquainted with the

promises."—Testimonies,

vol. 5, p. 629.

God's Strange Act

How will the earth be purified

from sin and sinners? Rev. 20:9, 15.

NOTE.—"This is not an act of arbitrary

power on the part of God. The rejecters

of His mercy reap that which they have

sown. God is the fountain of life; and

when one chooses the service of sin, he

separates from God, and thus cuts himself

off from life. He is 'alienated from the

life of God.' Christ says, 'All they that

hate Me love death.' Eph. 4:18; Prov.

8:36. God gives them existence for a time

that they may develop their character and

reveal their principles. This accomplished,

they receive the results of their own choice.

By a life of rebellion, Satan and all who

unite with him place themselves so out

of harmony with God that His very

presence is to them a consuming fire. The

glory of Him who is love will destroy

them."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 764.

10.

How complete will this work

of destruction be? How many sin-

ners will survive it? Mal. 4:1.

NOTE.—"In the mad strife of their own

fierce passions, and by the awful outpour-

ing of God's unmingled wrath, fall the

wicked inhabitants of the earth—priests,

rulers, and people, rich and poor, high and

low. . . . At the coming of Christ the

wicked are blotted from the face of the

whole earth—consumed with the spirit of

His mouth and destroyed by the bright-

ness of His glory. . . .

"The whole earth appears like a desolate

wilderness. The ruins of cities and villages

destroyed by the earthquake, uprooted

trees, ragged rocks thrown out by the sea

or torn out of the earth itself, are scattered

over its surface, while vast caverns mark

the spot where the mountains have been

rent from their foundations."—The

Great

Controversy,

page 657.

11.

What assurance is given that

sin will not lift its head again to

plague the human family and that

righteousness will reign forever? 2

Peter 3:13; Rev. 21:27.

NOTE.—"Satan's work of ruin is forever

ended. For six thousand years he has

wrought his will, filling the earth with

woe and causing grief throughout the uni-

verse. The whole creation has groaned and

travailed together in pain. Now God's

creatures are forever delivered from his

presence and temptations. 'The whole earth

is at rest, and is quiet: they [the righteous]

break forth into singing.'

"—The Great

Controversy,

page 673.

12.

What timely counsel is given

those who know what God has re-

vealed about the future? 2 Peter 3:

14, 17, 18.

NorE.—"It is now that we must keep

ourselves and our children unspotted from

the world. It is now that we must wash

our robes of character and make them

white in the blood of the Lamb. It is now

that we must overcome pride, passion, and

spiritual slothfulness. It is now that we

must awake and make determined effort

for symmetry of character. 'Today if ye

will hear His voice, harden not your

hearts.' We are in a most trying posi-

tion, waiting, watching for our Lord's ap-

pearing. The world is in darkness. 'But

ye, brethren,' says Paul, 'are not in dark-

ness, that that day should overtake you

as a thief.' It is ever God's purpose to

bring light out of darkness, joy out of

sorrow, and rest out of weariness for the

waiting, longing

soul."—Testimonies,

vol.

5, pp. 215, 216.

[ 45

110

Portrayed by Ellen G. White in THE CONFLICT OF

THE AGES set of books. It began in the ancient times

of the PATRIARCHS AND PROPHETS, progressed

through the times of the PROPHETS AND KINGS,

was gloriously illuminated by THE DESIRE OF AGES,

witnessed THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES, and will

finally end in THE GREAT CONTROVERSY, with a

glimpse into the future.

This set of five volumes provides an invaluable guide to

a greater, finer, and better life while pointing out the

lessons that history gives.

This remarkable set of

books greatly enhances:

* Study

* Inspiration

* Dedication

Five-volume set, cloth,

$23.50

Five-volume set, deluxe,

$28.50

Order from your helpful Book and Bible House.

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

December 21, 1963

Southern African Division

Of all countries in the world today, Africa's are probably undergoing

the greatest change. Not only is the map of this continent changing,

but many newly independent nations have emerged from the political,

economic, social, and educational upheavals which accompany such

radical change.

Among the emerging peoples, education and improved living stan-

dards are dominant aspirations. With many millions of dollars being

made available by overseas governments annually, local governments

have been able to increase the salaries and improve the living con-

ditions of their employees. Business concerns have been forced to keep

pace with the governments' trends, and mission organizations have had

to struggle along behind, doing the best they can with the funds avail-

able. In due course our members should be able to do more to support

the work in their fields, but at present their earning capacity is still

being developed.

That is why we are asking our Sabbath school members around

the world to accept the project of improving African workers' housing

through the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering on December 21.

LESSONS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER, 1964

Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior

Lesson Quarterly

for the first quarter of 1964 will be helped by the following outline in studying the

first lesson. The title of the lessons for the quarter is "Christ in All the Scriptures."

The title of the first lesson is "The Attitude of Jesus Toward the Holy Scriptures."

The memory verse is Luke 24:27. The texts to be studied are:

Ques. 1. Luke 16:31.

Ques. 2. John 5:46, 47.

Ques. 3. Luke 24:27.

Ques. 4. Matt. 4:3, 6, 9.

Ques. 5. Matt. 4:4, 7, 10.

Ques. 6. Deut. 8:3 ; 6:16, 13, 14.

Ques. 7. John 5:39.

Ques. 8. Matt. 22:45; John 5:46; 8:56.

Ques. 9. Luke 4:16-21.

Ques. 10. Luke 22:37.

Ques. 11. Matt. 26:31.

Ques. 12. Mark 14:48, 49.

Ques. 13. Luke 24:25, 26.

[ 47 ]

CENTRAL AFRICAN

CONGO

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TANGANYIKA

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4,261,933

323

57,475

12,317,326

11,477

17,131,129

237

43,481

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18,289

15,249,246

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17,865

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14,245

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181

35,255

67,047,277

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